Talc

The softest mineral, number 1 on the Mohs scale. It feels soapy or greasy and leaves powder on your fingers.

Talc specimen — Photo: Unknown, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons

How to identify talc

Easily scratched by a fingernail.
Slippery, soapy feel.
Pearly sheen on flaky surfaces.
Flakes don't spring back when bent.

Often confused with

Gypsum
Gypsum isn't greasy and is a bit harder.
Compare side by side
Soapstone
Soapstone is a rock made mostly of talc — massive and carvable rather than flaky.
Compare side by side

Where it's found

Vermont
Montana
Piedmont, Italy

Uses

Ceramics, paper, plastics, paint and cosmetics.

Rock tumbling

Not suitable for tumbling.

Did you know?

Talc is the reference mineral for hardness 1 — the bottom of the Mohs scale.

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