– Natural Amakusa sharpening stone from Kumamoto Prefecture, Japan – Substantial 1.1 kg block measuring approximately 195 × 60 × 40 mm – Medium-grit stone suited to intermediate sharpening of Japanese kitchen knives and other blades Summary: A substantial natural Amakusa whetstone from Kumamoto Prefecture, selected for its quality and intended for medium-stage sharpening. Measuring approximately 195 mm long, 60 mm wide and 40 mm thick, with a weight of around 1,100 g, the stone offers a generous working surface and excellent stability during use. Its sharpening character corresponds approximately to the medium-grit range around #800, making it particularly useful after coarse edge correction and before finer finishing stones. The warm ochre, amber and cream natural patterning also gives the stone considerable visual character as a traditional Japanese sharpening tool. Amakusa whetstones have long been associated with Japanese blade maintenance, particularly as practical medium-grit stones used to establish and refine an edge before the polishing stages. This example is especially substantial. At approximately 195 × 60 × 40 mm, it provides both useful working length and significant thickness, allowing the stone to be used repeatedly over an extended period. Its weight of approximately 1.1 kg also helps it remain stable during sharpening. The surface displays the naturally occurring warm colouring characteristic of the material, ranging from pale cream to deep orange, ochre and brown. Long linear patterns run through the stone, creating an appearance that is quite different from the uniform surface of a manufactured abrasive. As a natural stone, the abrasive sensation is not completely identical to a synthetic stone of a fixed grit rating. Its sharpening performance is best understood as approximately equivalent to a medium grit around #800, suitable for establishing a clean working edge and preparing the blade for subsequent refinement. This makes the stone particularly appropriate for Japanese kitchen knives, general cutlery and other edged tools requiring controlled intermediate sharpening. The relatively large surface offers ample room for longer sharpening strokes, which is especially useful with chef's knives and traditional Japanese blades. Natural whetstones also offer a tactile sharpening experience valued by enthusiasts. The interaction between steel, water and natural abrasive material develops progressively during use, giving the sharpener direct feedback through both resistance and sound. The stone's visual qualities are another part of its appeal. The golden-orange surface, darker mineral lines and naturally irregular tonal variations give each side a distinct character. Even as a functional workshop object, it carries the unmistakable individuality of a naturally quarried material. Minor natural variations, mineral markings and irregularities are inherent to this type of stone and should be regarded as part of its character rather than manufacturing defects. For collectors and users of Japanese knives, this Amakusa stone represents a practical connection to Japan's traditional sharpening culture: substantial enough for regular use, visually distinctive, and particularly useful as the intermediate stage of a multi-stone sharpening progression. Dimensions: approximately 195 × 60 × 40 mm Weight: approximately 1,100 g Sharpening grade: medium, approximately #800 Origin: Kumamoto Prefecture, Japan Use: intermediate sharpening for Japanese knives, kitchen knives and other blades Shipping & Handling We ship worldwide via DHL or EMS with full insurance and tracking. Professional packing ensures safe arrival; combined shipping available for multiple wins. Local customs duties are the buyer’s responsibility. Seller Guarantee We specialise in authentic Japanese collectibles and guarantee this piece’s authenticity. Questions welcome – we reply within 24 hours.