Hitohira Picked Mizukihara Uchigumori Natural Stone (No.0023)

Brand: Hitohira ひとひら
Product Type: Natural Stone
Mine: Mizukihara
Producing Area: Kyoto/ Japan
Layer: Uchigumori
Recommended Usage: Kitchen Knife (Edge), Kitchen Knfie (Bevel),Chisel, Plane, Hagane Polish, Kasumi Finish
Hardness (5 = Very Hard): 2.9
Grain Scale (5 = Very Fine): 3
Sharpening Speed (5 = Very Fast): 4
Soaking Requirement: Not required
Size: 196 x 70 x 28mm
Weight: 986g
Revied by Naoki Tsuda

Uchigumori stones, renowned for their indispensable role in the Japanese sword and high-end japanese kitchen knife polishing processes, are exclusive treasures found only in the Mizukihara and Ohira mines of Western Kyoto. These stones, hailing from the Tenjyo Suita layer of the Hon-Kuchi Naori stratum, are essential for achieving the coveted kasumi finish on Tamahagane steel, showcasing their unmatched capability to enhance both the aesthetic and functional quality of blades. Available in soft (Hato) and hard (Jito) varieties, Uchigumori stones hold a special place in the hearts of Togishi (sword polishers) and culinary experts, prized for their unique ability to sharpen and polish traditional Japanese blades with unparalleled precision. Despite their softer nature, which is typically considered less than ideal for sharpening, these stones are celebrated for their effectiveness in both refining and accentuating the craftsmanship of traditional Japanese blades. The exclusivity of Uchigumori stones, found only in the Mizukihara and Ohira mines, alongside their deep-rooted connection to Japanese artisanal traditions, elevates them to a status of highly sought-after and expensive resources, embodying the fusion of natural elegance, artisanal skill, and cultural heritage in the domain of Japanese blade artistry.