What is a soft metamorphic rock composed of the mineral talc called?

The soft, metamorphic rock composed of talc is called soapstone, or steatite. Soapstone gets its name from its greasy or soapy feel. It can be blue, gray, green or brown.

Humans have been carving soapstone for thousands of years to create works of art and molds for tools and weapons. It is especially good as cookware, it retains heat and releases it slowly.

Soapstone is easy to carve and often used for kitchen counters and bathroom vanities. Unlike stone such as granite or marble, soapstone is nonporous and resists etching by acids and alkalines. Homeowners usually purchase the harder types of soapstone for countertops and backsplashes.