Ask the Staff
Question:
Can you tell me what Japanese waterstones are made of? Do they have any lead in them?
Best Regards,
Greg Everett
Answer:
Greg,
While there are some true mined Japanese waterstones still sold (they are pretty expensive), most of all waterstones are manmade. They consist of a crushed aggregate stone material of an appropriate grit and usually have a clay binder mixed in. They are typically fired in a kiln to make the "brick" or stone. Waterstones cut quickly, always exposing fresh and sharp cutting surfaces as the stone is used. They are the preferred stones to use for many woodworkers.
I've never heard of lead being an ingredient or concern with Japanese waterstones.
Regards,
Ed Scent
Highland Woodworking
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