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soapstone & alabaster sealing

Stone Conversations : Archive 3 : Message 00258

From: "John VanCamp" <jvcstnwrks@xxxxxxxxxxxxx>
Date: Mon, 23 Dec 2002 15:20:13 -0600
Subject: soapstone & alabaster sealing

As mentioned by Tracy, you cannot change the hardness of the
stone, and both soapstone (mineral talc) and alabaster ( the
mineral gypsum) are on the soft end of the mohs hardness scale.
Penetrating sealers do just that, and do not offer any surface
protection. And since both of these stone types are relatively
dense, they don't take a penetrating sealer very well.
Particularily the soapstone. Waxes on the other hand give you
a wax surface, and not stone, and wax will dull over time.
Mineral oil has been used traditionally on soap stone and while
it will not protect the surface from scratches, it does a good
job of hiding them. It will also darken the appearence of the
stone and give it a sheen or wet look. Try some on a piece of
scrap stone and see what you think, Good luck with your
carving, and holiday wishes to everyone.
John VanCamp

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