Steatite (Black Pipestone) for Carving

Steatite, also called Black Pipestone, is a soft metamorphic rock composed mostly of the mineral talc. It is dense and close grained, with practically no stratification or natural cleavage lines and has a high transverse strength and high resistance to crushing.
What makes this rock so nice for carving is that in its natural form, Steatite is light gray in color. However, when carved, polished, sealed with wax or oil and heated its color turns to a deep, rich hue of black. Its texture is "soapy" to the touch, much like red pipestone or soapstone. The Indians preferred the red pipestone but, when it was not available through trade or digging, they often used Steatite instead.
On Mohs Scale of Hardness Steatite has a range of 2 to 5 because it is a rock rather than a mineral. It composition includes hydrous magnesium silicates.
You can also check out our Red Minnesota Pipestone for carving that special pipe by clicking on the pipestone button at either the top or bottom of this page.

steatite pipe Dear Carl and Linda,
   "I recently ordered a couple of blocks of pipestone to carve pipes with. One of Steatite and one of Catlinite. I ordered the Steatite to practice with before I started in carving the more expensive Catlinite. However the result I obtained with the Steatite far exceeded my expectations. The stone is wonderful to carve and takes a good polish. It goes from rasp to file, to 320 grit, 400, and finally 600 literally in minutes. Wow! Beeswax brings out a rich and beautiful black. Amazing stuff.
   "Please find attached photos of my first efforts. Feel free to use them on your website."
David Smith

steatite for carving

pc# SIZE PRICE
1 6.0" x 4.5" x 1.6"
Broken Corner		 $42.00
2 5.25" x 4.9" x 1.5" SOLD
3 5.6" x 4.9" x 1.4" SOLD
4 5.75" x 4.5" x 1.6" $43.00
5 5.7" x 4.5" x 1.6" $42.00

Page last updated on 11/09/09