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Talc is a metamorphic mineralMetamorphic rock is the result of the transformation of a pre-existing rock type, the protolith in a process called metamorphism (which means "change in form", derived from the Greek words meta, "change", and morphe, "form"), through which the protolith i resulting from the alteration of silicates of magnesium such as pyroxenePyroxenes are a group of rock-forming silicate minerals. They are comprised of single chains of silica tetrahedra and have the general formula XY(Si,Al)O. X represents calcium, sodium, iron+2 and magnesium and more rarely zinc, manganese and lithium.s, amphiboleHornblende) Amphibole defines an important group of dark-colored rock-forming silicate minerals composed of double chain SiO tetrahedra linked at the vertices and generally containing ions of iron and/ or magnesium in their structures. In chemical composis, olivineThe mineral olivine is a magnesium iron silicate with the formula (Mg,Fe)SiO in which the ratio of magnesium and iron varies between the two endmembers of the series: forsterite (Mg-rich) and fayalite (Fe-rich). It gives its name to the group of minerals and other similar minerals. It is usually found in metamorphic rocks, often of a basic type due to the alteration of the minerals mentioned above.

A coarse grayish-green talc has been called soapstoneSoapstone is a very soft mineral consisting mostly of talc. Soapstone which is almost entirely talc is also known as steatite. It may feel soapy when touched, hence the name. Soapstone is used for inlaid designs, sculpture and for kitchen countertops and or steatite and has been used for stoves, sinks, electrical switchboards, etc. Talc finds use as a cosmetic (talcum powder), as a lubricant, and as a filler in paper manufacture. Most tailor's chalk is talc.

The origin of the name derives from the Persian via Arabic.

Talc is also used as food additive or in pharmaceutical products, in the European Community the additive number is E553b.