STONE HONING & POLISHING

According to Webster's dictionary, the word, "hone", means "to sharpen or smooth with a whetsone". Since the beginning of time, hunters and craftsmen have utilized sharper stones to carve, sharpen, smooth, and shine softer stones using the process of honing.   

In our industry, honing is a precise undertaking using an abrasive (usually a diamond abrasive) to change the finish of the surface of something. We use the terms: sand, grind, diamond grind, and diamond polish; many times in place of “hone.” We use the word, "hone" to express to our clients and customers a level of shine that will be delivered on their stone's surface, most commonly a floor. As restorers we deliver a matte, satin, or polished finish. All of these finishes are a level of hone. 

Rust forms on stone usually when something corrosive has been left in contact with it. For example, a metal stand, pot, tool, plaque, or some other item which, when wet, can cause rust to form on stone in liquid form. After the water has evaporated, the acids remain and begin to infuse deep into stone's porous capillaries. 

Removing rust often involve the use of solvents or chemicals strong enough to re-liquify rust, and then extract it from the stone's pours. Oftentimes multiple treatments are necessary in order to achieve desired results. Protective gear is always recommended.