This is a natural finishing stone from the Nakayama Kurumaguchi line. Kurumaguchi is known as one of the most highly regarded mining entrances within the Nakayama mine and has long been prized for applications requiring delicate and highly precise edge refinement, such as razors, woodworking tools, and honyaki knives. Stones mined from the central area of the tunnel are generally considered the highest grade, while this particular piece comes from the outer edge of the Shikitomae entrance, commonly referred to as “Wakimono.”

It features extremely fine abrasive particles and a very high density, offering a silky-smooth and refined sharpening feel. Water absorption is moderate, allowing the stone to generate a delicate and controlled slurry while producing a sharp edge with excellent clarity and transparency. A beautiful Karasu pattern appears on the backside, making this a stone that offers not only performance but also great satisfaction of ownership. Compared to the Nakayama stones we normally offer, the sharpening sensation could be described as the difference between ordinary cotton and high-quality silk.

The resulting edge is crisp, clean, and highly refined, with a glossy near-mirror finish that pairs especially well with razors and high-hardness steels.

A slight layer crack can be seen on the sharpening surface; however, it is not believed to directly cause scratches during sharpening, and it is expected to gradually disappear through repeated lapping over time.

This stone represents the quiet, elegant, and sophisticated sharpening feel for which Nakayama Kurumaguchi stones are so highly respected among Kyoto natural finishing stones.

Please note that these are not for beginner sharpeners since they're harder to use.These are natural stones meaning that every single one of them are different so my measured size are not accurate. This is a life time investment for people who lives sharpening their  tools, do not hesitate to ask me your questions.”