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Where do you find talc, the softest mineral in the world?
Talc is usually found as a surface weathering product of ferromagnesian minerals, such as olivine, pyroxene, and amphibole. These are most commonly associated with mafic rocks, which are associated with areas of crustal spreading and exposure of the mantle at the surface. Because of this it is found with ultramafic rocks, which are pretty rare. When pure and massive, it can be called "soapstone," which is eagerly sought after for its ease of carving (but since it is so soft, anything you carve is extremely fragile.
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