This is a Japanese natural sharpening stone, whetstone bought in the Kyoto area of Japan.

It is a natural stone, not man made. This would be for finishing a blade that is being sharpened. For that final razor edge. It\'s the kind of stone that generates a fine slurry as it\'s being used. The photos show it from all sides. It absorbs water very fast so it would need to soak before use. The last photo shows it wet.

We bought this about 20 years ago at an antiques sale in Japan along with a large amount of Japanese carpenter tools. This stone is unusual in that it\'s never been used. This is a very good stone.

It\'s 8 x 3 inches and 1 1/4 inches thick (20.5 x 7.5 x 3.25 cm) It weighs just under 3 pounds (1.3 kilo)

(The mark on the side in the fourth photo is where are identifying sticker for U.S. and Japanese customs was)

We have other antique/vintage Japanese items on our site. We will combine items for shipping if we can safely do so.

And if you are not completely satisfied with your purchase, return it within 14 days for a no questions asked refund.

Notice: If you want to combine items, or are buying internationally, contact us about shipping before payment. We can often give you a lower price than the computer generated shipping price.