I just purchased the Super Fine 1200/1600 grit ceramic stones and the ceramic looks like the edges are chipped and the stones appear pitted. Is this okay?

I just purchased the Super Fine 1200/1600 grit ceramic stones and the ceramic looks like the edges are chipped and the stones appear pitted. Is this okay?

Due to the nature of the 1200/1600 Grit Ceramic media, you may notice some spotting on the flat of the stone and minor chipping on the edges. You may also note some chalk-like dust coming off the stones, especially during the first few times you use them. This is completely normal. The abrasive in this particular type of ceramic is held together in a ‘vitrified bond’ and is somewhat fragile, so some chipping along the edges will naturally occur. The dust comes from what is known as a “kiln layer” wearing off of your stones as you use them. The kiln layer is a part of the manufacturing process and is mostly removed when the stones undergo a process call “shot-siding,” in which they are rubbed together and vibrated, but typically some of the kiln layer is left behind.  As your stones break in, the spotting will wear away and your stones will become even more effective. The remainder of the kiln layer will be removed after sharpening several knives.
    • Related Articles

    • How to Maintain Your Super Fine 1200/1600 Grit Ceramic Stones

      The Super Fine Ceramic stones are fantastic polishers and sharpeners and are especially useful for getting rid of scratch patterns left by our diamond stones. To ensure your Super Fine Ceramic Stones have a long and useful life, wipe your knives ...
    • Break-In Period and Lifespan of Wicked Edge Diamond Sharpening Stones

      Wicked Edge Diamond Stones have a break-in period. These abrasives are made from a process called electro-plating. During this process some diamond particles become stuck to each other and form a second layer of diamonds above the base coating. When ...
    • Can the Wicked Edge Sharpen and Maintain Convex Edges?

      Convex edges are very easy to work with in the Wicked Edge. You can maintain a convex edge already on a knife and you can also create your own convex edge. To maintain the edge on a knife that already has a convex edge, all you really need to do is ...
    • Wicked Edge Grit and Micron Order Chart

      Micron vs Grit You'll see that we bounce between micron and grit when discussing our abrasive handles and stropping compounds. Both of these measurements are used to determine how coarse or fine a material is. Grit is measured in how many individual ...
    • How to Clean Your Diamond Stones

      Diamond stones are your workhorses for getting a knife sharp. They can also get really, really grimy. The best method for keeping your diamond stones clean is to wash them with warm, soapy water and let them air dry. Any household dish soap is ...