Soapstone is a metamorphosed, easily worked igneous stone characterized by a "soapy" feeling when touched. Colors range from dark gray to bluish or greenish gray. Its heat retention qualities make it an ideal cladding for free-standing coal or wood-fired room heaters. Soapstone is also chemical, stain and weather-resistant, and is useful for sinks and labratory tops as well as general building purposes.

- Marble Institute of America