Archive for September 5th, 2009
Arkansas Sharpening Stone
Arkansas Sharpening Stone
Arkansas sharpening stones (Novaculite) are sedimentary rocks, ninety nine percent silica with small amounts of various amounts of other minerals (Boron, Manganese, Aluminum, etc.) interspersed during the 200 to 300 million years of development. These other minerals cause the varied shades to the color of the stone. Some stones are called Washita whetstones. They have typically been mined in or around the Ouchita mountains.
Arkansas stones are considered oil stones. Honing oil should be used during the sharpening process. This suspends the steel shavings during the sharpening of the knives as well as providing lubrication between the metal and the stone. A little additional honing oil added to the stone after use will assist in keeping the stone clean. Just wipe away the excess oil with a clean cloth and your stone will be ready for you next knife sharpening project.