What is rottenstone?

Rottenstone is a fine powdery abrasive material that is typically used for polishing and rubbing wood finishes to a high gloss. It is a type of sedimentary rock that is composed of silica, clay minerals, and iron oxide.

Rottenstone is usually mined from quarries and is then processed into a soft, powdery substance by grinding and sieving. It has been commonly used in woodworking and furniture making for centuries as a finishing material to give pieces a smooth and shiny surface.

When using rottenstone, it is typically mixed with a lubricant such as water, oil, or alcohol to create a paste that can be applied to the wood surface. The abrasive qualities of the rottenstone help to remove small imperfections and scratches, leaving a polished and smooth finish.

Overall, rottenstone is a versatile and effective polishing material that can be used to achieve a high-quality finish on wood surfaces.