Charlene Charette wrote:
>
> We're building a new house next year and are currently in the design
> phase. I was all set to put in Silestone countertops when the hubby
> suggested soapstone. Does anyone here have soapstone countertops? How
> do you like them? My main concern would be if they scratch easily.

Quoting from:
http://www.uic.edu/sph/glakes/harts1...urehazards.txt

Serpentine, soapstone, and greenstone may contain
asbestos, which can cause asbestosis, lung cancer,
mesothelioma, and stomach and intestinal cancers.

Quoting from:
http://www.baughnormanoils.com/specific_materials.htm

For example, sandstone, soapstone, and slate may
contain asbestos. New York soapstone contains
asbestos. Always wear a good quality dust mask
respirator (not a nuisance filter), goggles, and
gloves as necessary and use water spray over the
sculpture to keep the dust down.