TALC is also written as Mg₃Si₄O₁₀(OH)₂,Known as Hydrated Magnesium Silicate

In pulverized form it is whiter in appearance.The compact variety of talc is called steatite or soapstone. The word soapstonehas been named probably due to its soapy feel. The impure and hard variety iscalled potstone, which is mainly utilized for making carvings, models,decorative vases, utensils, pots and the like and hence the name potstone.

French-chalk is the trade name of pulverizedtalc of pure white quality which forms the base for many cosmetics and toiletpreparations. Talc is valued for its extreme softness, smoothness, highlubricating and hiding power and ability to absorb oil and grease. It ischemically inert to acids and alkaline.