We recently saw a sample soapstone counter top at our kitchen cabinet place.
Looked nice but duller than what we are used to seeing. The owners said that it can be quite soft as contrasted to other material types & therefore more prone to damage; however, it can be easily repaired or refinished. The relative softness allows for those wonderful Soapstone carvings that are produced by out northern people.
Quartz seems to be the most durable. We went with a light coloured quartz for 3 counter tops plus back splash that is not too busy looking - a relatively new colour called Creme Brulee - that doesn't show dirt or spills like black does. Ours has more of a satin finish with some gloss. After a year we are very pleased with our installation - no visible wear at all...
TAM
