Japanese Natural Sharpening Stone Umajiyama

Manufacturing: Japan, Kyoto  
Brand: Umajiyama Natural Whetstones  
Type: natural whetstone 
Size: approximately 21 x 3.5 x 3.5 cm 
Grit: approximately #8000
Weight: approximately 500g

The Umajiyama quarry is located in Kyoto Prefecture near the famous Ohira quarry and is known for mining natural whetstones, which are highly valued for their quality and properties. These stones are slightly softer than those from Ohira, making them ideal for fine finishing work, such as achieving Kasumi - a fine, misty sheen on knife blades. Stones from the Umajiyama quarry are characterized by their medium hardness and fine grit, allowing for easy use and efficient sharpening. Given the limited availability and closure of many traditional quarries in Japan, stones from Umajiyama are considered rare and collectible.

1. Gently moisten the stone with water. 
2. The stone needs to be fixed before sharpening, ideally in a non-slip holder. 
3. Sharpen the selected tool on the stone. During sharpening, a muddy slurry forms; do not remove it during the process, as it contains abrasive grains that facilitate sharpening. 
4. Wash and dry the tool. 
5. Rinse the whetstone under clean water, dry it with a paper towel, and let it air dry completely before storage. 
6. Rotate the stone each time you use it to ensure even wear and flatten it as needed.

Natural stone from the Umajiyama quarry.

Note: Supplied in original cardboard box.

To keep the whetstone in the best condition, it needs to be cleaned regularly, thoroughly dried before storage, continuously leveled to remove unevenness, and stored properly. Keep the whetstone in a place where it will not be damaged. For more thorough cleaning, soak for a few hours in water and use a soft brush to remove excess sharpening dirt. After each soak, let it dry thoroughly.