“Soapstone countertops are known for their classic beauty, natural richness, and practical benefits. This versatile material works beautifully not only for kitchen countertops, but for many other spaces in and around the home.

Soapstone is admired for its unique character and charm, developing a rich patina as it beautifully ages. Every soapstone countertop, vanity or fireplace seems to have its own story, like an old New England farmhouse that’s been carefully preserved.

From a practical standpoint, soapstone is very easy to maintain, and its heat resistance is legendary.From a practical standpoint, soapstone is very easy to maintain, and its heat resistance is legendary. What makes soapstone stand out is the feel—smooth, almost silky, yet solid and grounding. You notice it the moment you touch it. It’s not just a countertop; it’s an experience.

Our clients that choose soapstone often have a strong emotional connection to its historical look and feel and know that it will simply add to the character of their home.

Come visit us and see if soapstone might fit your story.”

Soapstone isn’t flashy—it’s timeless.

With its soft matte finish, subtle veining, and naturally cool touch, it brings quiet elegance to any space.

The colors range from soft gray and subtle green to deep charcoal, and each piece has its own personality.

Over time, it develops a natural patina, deepening in tone.

Occasional oiling can bring out its rich, dark color, but it's completely optional.
Left unoiled, it simply keeps a lighter appearance.

There's no sealing needed, and maintenance is easy.

Today, most soapstone comes from Brazil, which is currently the world’s leading supplier of soapstone for countertops.

Soapstone is also quarried in the U.S., Canada, Finland, and India. Each region’s soapstone has its own unique coloring and texture.

In Brazil, soapstone holds a deep cultural, historical, and artistic significance, where it’s known as “pedra-sabao.” It’s used in cookware, pottery, architecture, and many famous sculptures.

Much of soapstone’s versatility can be traced to its remarkable heat resistance. It can withstand heat like no other natural surface.

Beyond kitchen countertops, soapstone can be used for bathroom vanities, fireplaces, wall coverings, laundry areas, outdoor kitchens, decorative fountains, bar tops, and more.

Soapstone is also commonly used to fabricate custom sinks, including utility sinks and integrated kitchen or bathroom sinks.

Natural Beauty: Soapstone offers a unique, rustic appearance with soft, subtle veining that adds character to any space.
Heat Resistance: This material can withstand high temperatures, making it ideal for kitchen countertops.
Stain Resistance: Soapstone is non-porous, which means it doesn’t stain and is resistant to bacteria.
Patina Development: Over time, soapstone develops a beautiful, natural patina that enhances its charm and uniqueness.
Low Maintenance: Unlike other natural stones, soapstone does not require sealing and is easy to maintain.
Durability: While softer than granite, quartzite or quartz, soapstone is still durable and can last for many years with proper care.

Soapstone is a metamorphic rock formed under intense heat and pressure,
primarily composed of talc, which gives it a soft, soapy feel.

It also includes minerals like chlorite, magnesite, and amphibole,
contributing to its durability and heat resistance,
making it perfect for countertops.

Quarrying: Soapstone is extracted from quarries using traditional mining methods. Large blocks of soapstone are cut from the earth.
Cutting: The blocks are then cut into slabs of varying thicknesses using diamond-tipped saws.
Finishing: The slabs are finished to the desired level of polish, ranging from a honed, matte finish to a more polished look.
Inspection: Each slab undergoes strict quality control to ensure there are no defects and that it meets aesthetic standards.

There are several varieties of soapstone, each with unique characteristics and colors. Some of the notable types include:

Santa Rita (Brazil): Uniform gray with a fine texture, perfect for sleek countertops and modern interiors.

Ouro Preto (Brazil): Darker hues with subtle green undertones, known for its durability and often used in sculptures.

Barroca (Brazil): Features intricate veining and color variations, making it versatile for various applications.

Santa Barbara (Brazil): Rich, dark colors with high durability, perfect for countertops and fireplaces.

Fantasia (Brazil): A mix of green, gray, and blue hues, known for its artistic and unique appearance.

Belvedere (India): Striking dark background with dramatic white veining, offering an elegant, sophisticated look.

Alberene (USA): Deep gray with a fine texture, durable and perfect for countertops and stoves.

Italian Soapstone: Gray to green hues with high heat retention, often used in stoves and fireplaces.

Churchill (Canada): Dense, dark color with a fine texture, ideal for countertops and sinks.

Churchill Soapstone Corner Kitchen

A Churchill Soapstone countertop with a matte finish, paired with a copper farmhouse sink, seamlessly tying together the warm tones of the terracotta floor and patterned tile backsplash.

Santa Barbara Soapstone Modern Fireplace

A sleek, black Santa Barbara Soapstone fireplace with subtle veining, set in a modern living room with floating shelves and warm wood tones.

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Fantasia Soapstone Fireplace

This elegant Fantasia Soapstone fireplace surround features soft veining over a deep green-black surface, framed by a crisp white mantle. A perfect blend of character and classic design.

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Ouro Preto Soapstone Bar

This bar setup features Ouro Preto Soapstone with a rich, dark surface and soft white veining. Paired with a copper sink, leather drawer pulls, and crisp white cabinetry, it creates a rustic yet refined feel—perfect for a cozy entertainment space.

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Italian Soapstone Elegance

A striking Italian Soapstone countertop and backsplash with dramatic white veining. Its smooth, matte finish adds timeless sophistication to any kitchen design.

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Barroca Soapstone Kitchen

This modern kitchen features Barroca Soapstone countertops with striking white veining. The natural texture and deep tone of the stone contrast beautifully with the warm wood cabinetry and minimalist design.

Soapstone vs. Marble

Soapstone vs. Marble:

Marble is prized for its luxurious look but is prone to staining and etching. Soapstone offers a similar elegance with better stain resistance and no need for sealing.

Soapstone vs. Granite

Soapstone vs. Granite:

Granite is harder and more scratch-resistant, but it requires regular sealing. Soapstone is easier to maintain and has a unique, rustic appeal.

Soapstone vs. Quartzite

Soapstone vs. Quartzite:

Quartzite is harder and more durable but requires sealing. Soapstone is softer and develops a patina over time, offering a different aesthetic.

Soapstone vs. Quartz

Soapstone vs. Quartz:

Quartz is an engineered stone known for its durability and low maintenance. Soapstone provides a natural look with unique aging characteristics.

Soapstone vs. Porcelain

Soapstone vs. Porcelain:

Porcelain is extremely durable and heat resistant, but it lacks the natural aging process of soapstone, which develops a unique patina over time.

Soapstone Countertops: Cost Comparison vs. Other Options

Soapstone countertops usually fall within the medium to medium-high price range, similar to other premium materials like marble, granite, and quartzite. While soapstone’s pricing is fairly consistent across its color range, it shares the same variability as these other materials.

Price is often driven more by supply and demand than by quality. Some colors and patterns—whether in soapstone, marble, granite, or quartzite - may cost less simply because they’re less popular, not because they’re lower quality. Often, a new color or style will be less expensive when first entering the market, with prices shifting as it gains popularity. That’s why even though soapstone is generally considered a premium material, certain colors can still fit comfortably within your budget.

In the end, the best material is the one that fits your project. Think about what matters most to you: style, functionality, and budget. That’s how you find the right fit.

The rise in soapstone's popularity can be attributed to several factors:

Aesthetic Appeal: Homeowners appreciate the natural, rustic look and the way soapstone ages gracefully over time.
Low Maintenance: Soapstone’s resistance to stains and bacteria makes it easy to care for and maintain.
Heat Resistance: Its ability to withstand high temperatures makes it a practical choice for kitchen countertops and other surfaces.
Hygenic Surface: The glaze on the Porcelain surface is non-porous, which makes it impervious to bacteria, fungi and molds.
Historical Significance: The use of soapstone in historical and architectural applications adds to its charm and appeal.

Soapstone’s versatility extends to various applications:

Kitchen Countertops: Soapstone is ideal for kitchen countertops due to its heat resistance and non-porous nature.
Bathroom Vanities: Its resistance to moisture and bacteria makes soapstone perfect for bathroom surfaces.
Sinks: Soapstone sinks add a touch of elegance and durability to kitchens and bathrooms.
Fireplace Surrounds: The heat resistance of soapstone makes it a popular choice for fireplace surrounds, especially in rustic settings.
Outdoor Kitchens: Soapstone's resistance to weather and UV rays makes it suitable for outdoor kitchen countertops.

Soapstone has a rich history in New England, where it has been used for centuries in various applications:

Colonial Homes: Early settlers used soapstone for sinks, countertops, and stoves due to its heat resistance and durability.
Public Buildings: Soapstone was commonly used in public buildings and schools throughout New England, valued for its durability and practicality. Unlike other natural stones, soapstone is not affected by acids or alkalies, so its durability is very popular as a surface in laboratories and science classrooms.
Quarries: New England is home to several historic soapstone quarries, which supply high-quality soapstone to the region.
Architectural Elements: Soapstone has been used for architectural elements like hearths, mantels, and flooring in historic homes and buildings across New England.

Maintaining soapstone countertops is straightforward:

Cleaning: Use a mild dish soap and warm water for daily cleaning. Avoid abrasive cleaners that can scratch the surface.
Oiling: Periodically apply mineral oil to enhance the natural darkening process and bring out the richness of the stone.
Preventive Measures: Use trivets or hot pads for hot cookware to prevent potential damage. Always use cutting boards to avoid scratches.
Repair: Minor scratches can be sanded out with fine-grit sandpaper and re-oiled to restore the surface.

Transform Your Home with Soapstone Countertops

Today, most soapstone comes from Brazil, which is currently the world’s leading supplier of soapstone for countertops.

Soapstone is also quarried in the U.S., Canada, Finland, and India.
Each region’s soapstone has its own unique coloring and texture.

In Brazil, soapstone holds a deep cultural, historical, and artistic significance, where it’s known as “pedra-sabao.”
It’s used in cookware, pottery, architecture, and many famous sculptures.

Much of soapstone’s versatility can be traced to its remarkable heat resistance.
It can withstand heat like no other natural surface.

Beyond kitchen countertops, soapstone can be used for bathroom vanities, fireplaces, wall coverings, laundry areas, outdoor kitchens, decorative fountains, bar tops, and more.

Soapstone is also commonly used to fabricate custom sinks, including utility sinks and integrated kitchen or bathroom sinks.