Marble - Marble is a metamorphic rock meaning it is formed by existing rock types in the Earth’s crust that is comprised of calcite, making marble a limestone. Marble is known for its prestigious white look and its deep use in ancient civilizations around the world.
Marble as a material is porous like granite but also soft which makes it is susceptible to etching and scratching. This etching nature is an attraction to some owners who see personality come through its wear, others will find it frustrating.
Marble is a classic and proven stone for customers who can commit to yearly sealing, attentive cleaning, and tolerance to wearing of material.
Soapstone - Soapstone is a metamorphic rock meaning it is formed by existing rock types in the Earth’s crust that is comprised of the mineral talc. Soapstone may be civilization’s original stone-based building material with use in ancient Egyptian, Viking, and Native American cultures.
Soapstone as a material is soft like marble but nonporous like quartz, so it doesn’t absorb oils and acids, and therefore soapstone doesn’t need sealing. Due to its talc-based nature soapstone has a silky feel to it but can “dry” out which means its deep color can fade. Good news - simple applications of mineral oil will restore the deep, rewarding look.
Soapstone is another classic option like marble with deep beauty for customers who can provide mineral oil applications to keep its gleam and can be tolerant of signs wear.