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Soapstone otherwise called as steatite and is softest of all the naturally occurring minerals found on Earth. This is formed by deposits of talc combined with other minerals by a process called metamorphosis. Soapstone contains high proportion of talc and often feels soapy when touched and so is the name. The word soapstone is derived from Brazilian word “pedra-sabao”. The use of soapstone was known even from the beginning of 17th century and was found Minas Geris and was considered as precious as precious stones and gold. Soap stone also contains minerals magnetite, dolomite, mica, quartz, tremolite and chlorite other than talc.
Handcrafted Soapstone Boxes
It is also said that soapstone was in use since before 300 to 400 millions of years and is the whole of Hoysala Empire was built in soap stone. In the 18th century artisans began sculpting sculptures out of soapstone and they also used the same mineral to create household articles and certain articles like boxes.
The boxes made from soapstone by artisans are really amazing and they vary in size and shape. There are a variety of soap stone boxes available and these boxes may be inlayed, carved, painted, and crude and at times with colorful Minakari work done. These boxes are not only beneficial but are also a great centerpiece. Each of these boxes is handmade as well as custom made according to the taste of the individual. They are amazing, attractive and look really natural with craggy as well as glittery finish. Soap stone boxes thus made can be used for various reasons like napkin holder to candy jars, jewelry boxes to pencil cases or cigar cases. These boxes are made mainly in Agra in India and few other places like Kenya where sandstone are obtained amply from mines and are exported all over the world. Soapstone boxes are really an amazing gift for anyone irrespective of their sex and age and are in huge demand all over the world.
