belgian coticule whetstone, block

Extra-fine waterstone. 35 - 40 % garnets.

Traditional yellow stone with 35 - 40 % garnets. As this quality is rare and precious, it is cut from the rough stone in polygonal form (chunks) and cemented onto a layer of slate for stabilisation. Extra-fine quality.

Coticule is a natural stone and is usually composed of 30 to 45 % garnets, which are bound together by volcanic ash. Coticule owes its exceptional cutting properties to the garnet content.

The Belgian coticule whetstone polygon is a closed-pored stone, which is why it cannot clog. Therefore, only water is used for sharpening, never oil. Oil is only used on porous stones to prevent the deposition of metal particles in the pores.

It is sufficient to moisten the surface of the Coticule - it should not be immersed in water. Grenades are exposed on the surface of the coticule during sharpening and the moisture creates a kind of grinding paste.

When sharpening carving tools with larger coticules, the stone can become uneven due to frequent use. To achieve a flat surface again for precise grinding results, you can dress the stone: To do this, place a piece of sandpaper on a flat surface. Add a little water and sand the surface of the Coticule. Use sandpaper with a grain size of around 80 to 100 micrometres. The flat surface of your coticule is particularly important if you want to grind tools with a straight edge, such as v-parting tools, chisels or plane blades.

You can find more information about Belgian coticule whetstones and coticule sharpening stones in our specialist knowledge article Coticule - Belgian coticule whetstone polygon. If you would like to know more about sharpening woodworking tools, please continue reading in our specialist knowledge articles Sharpening tools by hand: Sharpening stones and gouges by hand.