On Dec 13, 1:58�pm, Cindy Fuller
>
> Soapstone is the standard countertop material for laboratories. �If it
> can stand up to what can get spilled in a chemistry lab, it can
> certainly stand up to kitchen spills. �It's probably cheaper than other
> stone countertops, but heavier and more pricey than Formica. �The
> problem is that it doesn't come in pretty colors, so you have to like
> black. I would consider soapstone for a kitchen counter because of its
> durability.

Soapstone stands up to acids and heat better than any other material
which is why it's used extensively for lab benches but it is also the
softest stone (it's essentially talc) which necessitates special care
or it would not stand up well to the rigors of typical kitchen use.
If you like its appearance and are willing to exert precautions in use
then by all means choose soapstone. Personally I think soapstone is
much more attractive than granite but in the same way silk is more
attractive than denim... soapstone is the silk of stone countertops
and requires the same degree of care, whereas granite is tantamount to
dungaree denim. Actually soapstone is considered by some a gemstone,
whereas granite is just common rock. I'm very careful and diciplined,
especially with kitchen chores, so soapstone would work for me, but if
you're a klutz and a slob forget it.

SHELDON