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Layers of Japanese sharpening whetstone mines

Japanese natural sharpening stones (toishi, 砥石) are valued not only for their mines of origin, but also for the specific geological strata (strata layers) from which they are extracted. Each layer, or sō (層), has unique physical and abrasive properties that determine the stone's suitability for different sharpening stages, from coarse grinding to mirror polishing. These layers, often identified [...]

Natural Japanese sharpening whetstones: mine characteristics and significance

Japanese natural sharpening stones, also known as toishi (砥石), are not only tools, but also a cultural heritage, valued around the world for their unique grinding qualities and aesthetic. These stones, extracted from mines around Kyoto, are divided into eastern (Higashi Mono, 東モン) and western (Nishi Mono, 西モン) groups, according to their geographical location around Mount Atagoyama. Each [...]

Natural Japanese sharpening stones

Although the production volumes of natural Japanese honing stones are very low, there are many people who use them in search of a finish that can only be achieved using natural honing stones. In this article, Jun Watanabe, an expert from the traditional knife brand Mitsuhide Sakai, will explain the characteristics of natural sharpening stones by region and how to choose them. INDEX Jnats (Japanese Natural Stones) [...]