Rocks of Soap

The three rocks pictured above bespeak a 45 species family unlike any other family within the mineral kingdom. Though in the marketplace for nearly two decades, SoapRocks(R) somehow managed to fly beneath my radar until very recently during a quick visit to the stylish clothing boutique in Wilmington, Delaware that's known as Mystique. Upon learning I was en route to a mineral auction, Mystique's friendly proprietor, Bill McClane. brought some out to show me. Never has another body product so impressed me.

SoapRocks(R) are the creation of T.S. Pink Corporation, of Oneanta, New York. That company’s eponymous founder and CEO, Todd S. Pink, received training both in geology and art several decades ago at the University of New Mexico. After years of making a living in the arts, a “lightbulb moment” flashed one morning in 1991 while Pink was in the shower. “There were these little pieces of soap,” he recalls, “and they made me think of rocks.” Within three years, Pink had trademarked SoapRocks(R) as his new company’s premier product.

SoapRocks(R) are hand crafted by artisans at a facility in Upstate New York not far from T.S. Pink’s offices. Each of the 45 species offers a slightly different blend of whole herb extracts, vitamins, and minerals from aquatic, botanical, and terrestrial sources. Their fragrances differ as well, though ever so subtly. One very specially appealing aspect of SoapRocks(R) is how with use they ultimately “tumble,” into colourful pebbles.

As one whose vocation and avocation have for several years related to minerals, my biggest question for Todd Pink was how had his products escaped me? He explained that while soap rocks had been available at the Tucson Gem and Mineral Show (in the Herkimer Diamond booth) as well as other shows, his company wholesales them exclusively to businesses with storefronts.

Pink also shared another reason: “SoapRocks(R)are sustained by the interest of those who use them, not just those who look at them.” Though beautiful to behold, they are not the gemmy specimens they so resemble: they are body products. Yet, what kind of soap could possibly be more appropriate for a mineral person to wash with and have in the lavatory soap dish for the convenience of guests? Or what better gift for a mineral person?

For information regarding where or how to obtain SoapRocks(R), Todd suggested that you call 800-762-7765 or email sales@tspink.com.