Found in Canada's western region, each bout is given processing in our regional workshop.
Of greatest Renge content, the No. 1 Extra-Fine Grade mineral exhibits bright flashes in the grain of the stone.
A versatile & durable sharpening stone made from an excellent, tightly grained novaculite.
Small geodes are at times present within the raw material.
Exceptional, high quality stone delivering comfortable, responsive & articulate control.
A fine, clay matrix hone of finishing quality, this stone produces an outstandingly durable edge.
Unlike slate mineral, novaculite clay matrix contains a mesh of micro-porous silica.
Small geodes are at times present within the Lochinvar's raw material.
The Lochinvar No. 1 Extra-Fine Grade is a hard, dense mineral, harder than self-slurrying stones.
Sedimentary matrix hones use free particles (i.e. slurry) to work the stone without clogging its porous surface.
Very fine, amber/off white slurry. See final photo.
Note: White veins nontoxic are porous silica inclusions and maintain both the texture and consistency of the clay matrix mineral deposit.
Full lapping one side - See listing images - Slurry stone cost inclusive
~ For light surfacing/cleaning the lap: 600 grit silicon carbide paper sheet cost inclusive ~
For slurry use either rubbing stones or 400+ grit diamond plate.
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A note on clay matrix hones:
High carbide steel alloys normally possess what, in effect, is a grid of carbide particles. The geometry of this is what gives carbide steel alloy its specific qualities.
Regarding clay matrix sharpening stones, the matrix created from the novaculite and binding sediments provides the abrasive contact.
The abrasive contact in turn provides the sharpening burr while honing.
While honing, the carbide cuts microscopically into the binding sediment in order to contact the novaculite more directly.
In this way, the surface of the hone presents some form of mineral grid regarding the sediment/novaculite matrix.
In this way, clay matrix stones provide a sort of geometric advantage is obtained for high carbon alloy sharpening.
Clay matrix sharpening stones are from naturally occurring, geological deposits.
Basically, this is composed of novaculite both mixing and binding with a sedimentary agent during formation.
These stones, specifically, function well with hard temper, hard carbon steel alloys & useful for any variety of edged tools, knives, & so forth.
Honing with this type of stone does require both knowledge and skill.
In fact, the Japanese provide artisans with an actual apprenticeship to preform work on highly prized, hand forged examples.
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The Japanese often coat the bottom and sides of their finishing stones in lacquer.
This does assist the hone to hold the moisture & dry more evenly.
This is not of any absolute necessity and is left to their owner.
Stones should be stored & dried in a warm, constant ambient temperature.
~ Attention Canadian Customers; For combined shipping, inquire for Canada Post Flat Rate Box; up to 5 kg for $20 CAD