I was recently messaging back and forth with an eBay seller regarding purchasing a surgical black Arkansas hone. During the conversation, he mentioned having a slab of translucent black novaculite (his words, not mine) that he could cut me a piece of. I decided to go ahead and take the chance and purchase one. It hasn't arrived yet, but I should have it by the end of the week. It may be worthless as a razor hone, but it should work great for my kitchen and pocket knives. I'll post more info about its traits once it arrives and I have a chance to use it a time or two, but I was just wondering if anyone has ever heard of a translucent black arky?