All things are not created equal.

Diamonds are very hard, crystal structures with very sharp edges, Chromium oxide is not as hard, nor does it have the knife like edges of diamonds, thus the two cut differently even though the particle size is the same. There are even different kinds of diamonds, monocrystalline and polycrystalline, and they behave differently as abrasives. This variation exists throughout the wonderful world of abrasives and the hones made with them and thus a source of constant mix and match usage amongst us straight shavers. As has been long known by those in the grinding and metal polishing industries, each metal/material is optimally cut/polished by some abrasive or combination of abrasives that won't necessarily work for another. Grit size is only one small part of the equation.

As for a source of Chromium Oxide powder, you can check with Japanese Knife Sharpening (scroll to the bottom of the page) as it appears they still have the Hand American lifetime supply tubs of the stuff. I'm not sure if Hand American is still packaging it though, so if you want it, I'd grab it asap to be on the safe side. I know the HA liquid stuff is no longer available which is a shame because I liked it quite a lot.

Regards

Kaptain "Chromium Oxide Powder brings a whole new meaning to *green thumb*" Zero