Natural Stones

One of our most trusted sources handpicks these stones from the famed Imanishi in Kyoto for us, spending hours testing dozens and dozens and selecting only the best of the best at a variety of price points. These tennen toishi represent some of the best value you will find on the market for natural stones.

These stones are so impressive that they often make you feel like you are "cheating", so to speak - they provide outstanding results at a speed seemingly found only in stones that cost many times more, all while being fun and easy to use - they make it seem as if you have learned years of polishing in a matter of minutes. Combining these gems with the correct steel, you will come to understand the beautiful harmony skilled polishers sometimes have difficulty describing - working on natural stones with well-made knives truly ties the whole subject together.

We are proud to provide such wonderful pieces to you!

Brand: Komon-picked Imanishi
Producing Area: Kyoto - Japan
Mine: Hideriyama
Appearance: Classic Hideriyama Asagi with faint Kan and red hues visible when wet
Size: 194mm x 69mm x 29mm
Weight: 911g
~Grit Range: 4000-6000

1-5 Scale: 1 = Less, 5 = More
Hardness Level: 2.5
Scratch Depth: 1.5
Speed: 3.5
Wear Rate: 2
Self Slurry: 4
Thirst: 3
Consistency: 4
Feedback: 2
Ease of Use: 4

Notes: A classic representation of quality Hideriyama - mid-grit that you can work the slurry easily into lower high-grits; smooth, very consistent almost silky feedback; fast with dark slurry showing immediately; firm but on the softer side; and easy to use. A very high quality specimen for the cost and an ideal option for those getting into natural stones given its ease of use - just avoid gouging the surface. The lines cannot be felt and are not toxic.

Recommended Usage: Frosty Kasumi; mid+ step in polishing sequence; general wide bevel work, just firm enough for push cut tools; refined edges with the slightest bit of bite.

Disclaimer: Given the natural aspect of these stones, all graded characteristics are our own subjective thoughts which may vary from your expectations and assessment. The images shown and characteristics described may be from a previous, random example, or when first measured before being tested numerous times. If purchased, yours may differ slightly in appearance and qualities. All stone sales are final.

Brand: Morihei 森平
Mine: Natsuya
Appearance: Classic Natsuya figuring
Size: 210mm x 82mm x 63mm
Weight: 2417g
Grit Range: 2000-4000
1-5 Scale: 1 = Less, 5 = More

Hardness Level: 3
Scratch Depth: 2
Speed: 3
Wear Rate: 2
Self Slurry: 2
Ease of Use: 4

Recommended Usage: Mid grit polishing sequence, frosty kasumi, textured but refined edges, sharpening push-cut tools.

Notes: Natsuya have seen a huge explosion in popularity, largely do to their relative ease of use and availability. They are often cut large, so ideal for wide bevel knives and planes. They are firm but not at all hard. Their grit range makes them useful for both edges or quick Kasumi. Easy enough for beginners and novices. Large and firm enough for large planes or chisels. They are also very beautiful.

Please Note: Given the natural aspect of these stones, all subjective qualities are our estimates and may vary slightly from your exact expectations and assessment. The images shown and characteristics described may be from a previous example. If purchased, yours may differ slightly in appearance and qualities. Dimensions, weight, and stamps may be different from listed if it has been tested.