Serpentinites

Serpentinite is the technical group name of metamorphic rocks, which include the soapstone and the talc-stone among their varieties. In the field of dimension stones and covering, serpentinites are treated as green marbles (for example Green Alpi, Green Guatemala etc.), in spite of their carbonate minerals subordinated content.

In relation to the soap stone and the talc-stone, serpentinites show greater resistance to the abrasion, and accept burnishing, are presented in dark green colors with light green veins or reddish masses (for example Rosso Sacrament). The soap stone is dark gray and has no brightness; it is used mostly in the elaboration of parts for domestic ovens, fireplaces, small coverings, besides pans, casseroles, plates and grates for baking.

Talc-stone may be scratched by fingernail, and is unctuous at touch; it is presented in colors between brown and green with spots spread all over. Its main use is for statuary art and other decorative pieces.