Soapstone is the only counter top material that is not affected by heat and resists staining. You can spill on it, or place a hot pot directly on the counter. Soapstone was the material of choice for thousands of laboratory countertops for many years because it is completely non-absorbent. It is comparably priced with most other counter top materials. It is soft and will show wear, but scratches are quite easy to repair with a little mineral oil. Soapstone was used by Native Americans in Maryland; it is a traditional and natural material.