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The talc, soapstone, and asbestos deposits of Massachusetts

Open-File Report 69-39
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https://doi.org/10.3133/ofr6939

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Abstract

Several talc and soapstone deposits were worked in Massachusetts from about 1810 to 1922. Most of these deposits are in the Chester Amphibolite, or in serpentine lenses in or adjacent to the amphibolite along a belt that extends north-south across the State from Rowe to West Granville; it appears to be a continuation of the Vermont talc belt. The only deposits outside of this belt that have been worked are a talc and soapstone deposit in the north-west corner of Hinsdale and soapstone deposits on the east side of Soapstone Hill in the western part of Petersham. Very little asbestos has been produced in Massachusetts. A small amount of anthophyllite asbestos was obtained from the deposit in Hinsdale, and from a deposit in southwestern Pelham. The talc and soapstone deposits of Massachusetts were formed from serpentine and possibly from amphibolite, schist, and dolomitic limestone. Those fromed from serpentine are mainly at the ends of the serpentine bodies, and those that appear to have been formed from amphibolite or schist are on the faults and folds.

Suggested Citation

Chute, N.E., 1969, The talc, soapstone, and asbestos deposits of Massachusetts: U.S. Geological Survey Open-File Report 69-39, Report: iv, 42 p.; 8 Plates: 13.88 x 23.44 inches or smaller, https://doi.org/10.3133/ofr6939.

ISSN: 2331-1258 (online)

Study Area

Publication type Report
Publication Subtype USGS Numbered Series
Title The talc, soapstone, and asbestos deposits of Massachusetts
Series title Open-File Report
Series number 69-39
DOI 10.3133/ofr6939
Year Published 1969
Language English
Publisher U.S. Geological Survey
Description Report: iv, 42 p.; 8 Plates: 13.88 x 23.44 inches or smaller
Country United States
State Massachusetts
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