Tajima Nakato Tomo Nagura / Slurry Stone

Classification & Origin

Type: Tajima Nakato (但馬中砥) Tomo Nagura / Slurry Stone.
Origin: Tajima Province (modern Hyōgo Prefecture), Japan.
Stamps:
Main face: Rectangular boxed stamp reading 但馬中砥 (Tajima Nakato / Tajima Medium Stone).
Side face: Circular authentication/grade stamp reading 響 (Hibiki).

Grade & Performance Profile

Abrasive Level: Medium grit range, functionally equivalent to approximately #1,200 – #3,000 grit.
Hardness & Density: Medium-hard to hard matrix with moderate porosity and fast slurry breakdown.
Behavior: Cuts cleanly and quickly releases an abrasive, consistent mud that breaks down during use. It serves effectively as a prep nagura before progressing to fine JNAT finishing stages or for cleaning/opening glazed surfaces on hard stones.

Visual & Physical Description

Dimensions & Weight Approximately: 26 mm × 28 mm × 28 mm, 56 g.
Form Factor: Precision-cut cube with flat, sawn reference faces and clean stamp impressions.
Aesthetics: Light ash-grey base tone characterized by distinct, fine dark mineral speckling distributed evenly across the matrix.