Tsukinowa Iromono・Pierre de finition naturelle・Awasedo・Kyoto, Japon #108

This natural finishing stone comes from the Tsukinowa mine in the Kyoto stone belt. Its face carries the circled moon mark of the quarry together with the shohonyama certification of the Kyoto natural stone association.

It is an iromono, a coloured stone: the working face is an even, warm honey-amber with a fine and quiet grain, and the base edge is sealed in pink urushi lacquer.

At 3,5 of 5 on our hardness scale, with an estimated grit of 6000 to 8000, the stone is even-tempered. It builds slurry willingly, works faster than the hardest Kyoto layers and still finishes fine, which makes it forgiving in use without giving up the final edge.

A compact, broad stone, comfortable for kamisori, straight razors and carbon steel knives.

You will receive the exact stone shown.

Natural Whetstone - Tsukinowa

Length: 13,0 cm
Width: 10,0 cm
Height: 2,0 cm
Weight: 712 g
Hardness: ● ● ● ◐ ○ (3,5/5) hard

Sharpening Care Guide — Natural Japanese Whetstones

To preserve the character, performance, and longevity of your natural Japanese whetstone, please follow these care guidelines:

1. Keep the Stone Flat

Natural stones wear more slowly than synthetic stones, but regular flattening is still essential for controlled sharpening. Use a diamond lapping plate or a suitable flattening stone to maintain a flat, even surface. Avoid aggressive lapping unless necessary.

2. Use Water Only

Natural Japanese whetstones are designed to be used with water. Lightly wet the surface before use. Some stones benefit from a brief pre-wetting, while others should not be soaked for extended periods. Do not use oil or chemical additives.

3. Slurry Management

Depending on the stone, slurry may develop naturally during use. This is part of the sharpening process and should be managed gently. Avoid excessive pressure or artificial slurry generation unless intentionally desired.

4. Clean After Use

After sharpening, rinse the stone thoroughly with clean water to remove metal particles and residue. Use a soft brush if needed. Do not use soap, detergents, or abrasive cleaners.

5. Dry Slowly and Naturally

Allow the stone to air dry completely in a shaded, well-ventilated area. Avoid direct sunlight, heaters, or rapid temperature changes, as natural stones can crack if dried too quickly.

6. Store with Care

Store the stone in a dry, stable environment. Avoid damp locations and protect the stone from impacts or sudden temperature changes. If stored long-term, ensure the stone is fully dry before placing it in a box or wrapping.

7. Inspect Before Use

Before each use, rinse the surface and ensure it is free from dust, grit, or foreign particles. Any contamination may cause scratches on the blade and compromise sharpening results.

By following these guidelines, your natural whetstone will retain its unique sharpening characteristics and provide consistent, controlled results over time.