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Shobudani Iki-murasaki・Natural Finishing Stone・Awasedo・Kyoto, Japan #51
Shobudani Iki-murasaki・Natural Finishing Stone・Awasedo・Kyoto, Japan #51
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Shobudani “Iki-murasaki” (lively purple) — A Kyoto-region natural finishing stone with purple-toned weathering and “Iki-murasaki” surface character. Slightly softer than many hard Kyoto stones and excellent for refined finishing and controlled polishing.
6000-8000 grit
You will receive the stone pictured.
Full Description
Full Description
The term “Iki-murasaki” refers to a specific surface character and internal texture found in natural stones where purple hues have developed through natural weathering. This coloring is not surface staining, but part of the stone’s internal composition and reflects subtle mineral variations in the sedimentary layers.
In Japanese aesthetics, “iki” conveys a sense of refinement, elegance, and understated stylishness. Applied to whetstones, Iki-murasaki suggests a stone that delivers a polished finish with controlled feedback and a graceful response rather than overt aggressiveness. This visual and tactile quality makes Iki-murasaki stones desirable for those who value balanced finishing performance.
Shōbudani is part of the broader Kyoto whetstone tradition. Geologically, stones from Shōbudani share mineral characteristics with other Kyoto area stones, often producing predictable and consistent sharpening behavior. While historically many stones were generically grouped as Shohonyama (正本山) — a catch-all term for Kyoto region natural stones before individual mine names were widely used — specific localities such as Shōbudani are now identified and appreciated for their nuances. 
Stones from the Shōbudani strata are often described in the trade as slightly softer than the very hard, high-density Kyoto stones but still fine enough for upper-level finishing work. The softer character can make slurry building easier and give a controlled feel when refining edges, especially in the latter stages of a traditional sharpening progression.
In use, Iki-murasaki from Shōbudani fits naturally at the end of a sequence where edge refinement, clarity, and tactile feedback are priorities. Its subtle working qualities reward users who appreciate a steady, predictable finish and help bring out a clean, smooth edge without aggressiveness — ideal for razor and fine blade finishing.
Materials
Materials
Natural Whetstone - Shohonyama Karasu
Measurements
Measurements
aLength: 20,5 cm
Width: 7,8 cm
Height: 3,4 cm
Weight: 1257 g
Hardness: ●●●◐○ (3,5/5)
Care Guide
Care Guide
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.
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