Talc

SymbolMg₃Si₄O₁₀(OH)₂

The softest common mineral, valued for that softness and its slippery feel — ground for use as a lubricant, filler and in cosmetics, or worked as a solid block (soapstone or steatite) for carving. In Britain it occurs almost exclusively as small pods within the Lizard Peninsula's serpentinite.

Mines

MineRegionWorked
Poltesco Serpentine Works Cornwall Small-scale working from the early 18th century; factory built 1855-66–1893