Natural vs Synthetic whetstones

[FatCity67]

I've spent quite awhile trying to piece together any information posted in this forum regarding the whetstones that were included with the purchase pre-China. Haven't really been able to comeup with any specific thread discussion regarding types, dates, models etc....

I just purchased a 153uh apparently from the early 1990's based on the paperwork in the box and the Blade type.

The stone that was included in the sheath seems to be novaculite stone color variation similar to "Arkansas Stone" light grey white semi translucent.

Comparing this to the stone from my mid 1980's 153uh stone which appears to be synthetic dark grey.

The 1990's Arkansas stone is much finer grit than the 1980's stone just by feel.

Will try to post up comparative pictures later if needed.

Any information from the experts on this would be greatly appreciated.

 

[FatCity67]

Ok here we go: Left early 90's, Right mid 80's.

FYI correction from post above the 90's stone is less translucent than I thought and is actually a little bit rougher to the touch than the dark grey 80's stone. However I have used the 80's stone on a few occasions in the past with a lite coating of schrade stone oil and that might account for the difference in feel.

The dark grey 80's stone is a centameter or two longer than the wht 90's stone but almost the exact same thickness.

Anywho here yeah go: