metamorphic
Talc Schist / Soapstone
Talc (Mg3Si4O10(OH)2)
Hardness: 1 on Mohs scale (scratches easily with a fingernail). Color: pale green to greyish-green with slight brownish oxidation streaks. Luster: pearly to greasy. Texture: foliated, soft, and feels greasy/soapy to the touch. Cleavage: perfect basal cleavage. Specific gravity: 2.7–2.8.
- Hardness
- 1 on Mohs scale (scratches easily with a fingernail)
- Luster
- pearly to greasy
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Physical properties
Hardness: 1 on Mohs scale (scratches easily with a fingernail). Color: pale green to greyish-green with slight brownish oxidation streaks. Luster: pearly to greasy. Texture: foliated, soft, and feels greasy/soapy to the touch. Cleavage: perfect basal cleavage. Specific gravity: 2.7–2.8.
Formation & geological history
Formed through the regional metamorphic alteration of magnesium-rich ultramafic igneous rocks or magnesium carbonates (dolomites) at low temperature and high fluid flow conditions.
Uses & applications
Used in soapstone carvings, laboratory counter tops, electrical insulators, cosmetics (talcum powder), ceramics, and as a mineral specimen.
Geological facts
Talc is the softest known mineral on the Mohs scale of mineral hardness. Highly pure, massive varieties rich in talc are commonly referred to as soapstone or steatite.
Field identification & locations
Identified by its distinctive pale green color, extreme softness (can be scratched by a fingernail), greasy feel, and foliated texture. Commonly found in metamorphic terranes in regions such as Brazil, China, the Appalachian region (USA), and Scandinavia.
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