Thread: spots on my 8k

Recently I flattened my Norton 8k whetstone with 600 grit sandpaper and know I have spots on it. They look like water spots. What is the deal? Also, can you use a Norton prep stone on other grits such as 4k?

Pics would be great to help illustrate what you see.

8k norton stone

Can you feel anything on those spots? Either with your fingertips or by running a fingernail over them?

I've seen something similar on mine, just changes in the colour across the stone, no difference in feel though, doesn't seem to be anything other than cosmetic

Looks like drops of oil or tape glue on water stone.

I have some spots and discolorations on my Nortons, but I can't feel any difference on the surface, with my fingertips, nails or razor while honing.

Hey, thanks for the replies. I just pulled it out and is drying. The spots are fading. You can barely see them. Feels smooth. Kinda weird.

I have some discolorations on my Naniwa super stones and my Norton 8k. They don't interfere with the razor's trips up and down them, no visible interference with the edge that forms off of them. These minor discolorations don't seem to be a problem.

I think your only concern would be molds growing on them. Some interesting discussions about that on these forums but as long as they're not damp for prolonged periods... you could also try soaking them in diluted bleach water if you happen to get mold.

Originally Posted by proximus26

Looks like drops of oil

This is what I thought.