An Encyclopaedia of Indian Archaeology v1.c21.s14.1

v1.c21.s14.1

Steatite, also known as soapstone or potstone, is a massive variety of talc—a hydrated silicate of magnesium—and is found in India in foliated or granular masses. Natural steatite has a greasy feel and a pearly lustre and is very soft, thus lending itself to fine carving. Generally of greyish-green or brown colour, it has been used from early times for the manufacture of beads, seals, caskets and ornamental objects. Steatite seals, beads, statuettes, discs, etc., have been found in large numbers at Mohenjo-daro and Harappa. In India many Harappa [4.9] and post-Harappa sites have yielded a wide variety of steatite products.