Rottenstone is a substance used for polishing wood and metal, and its spelling can be a bit tricky. The word is pronounced /ˈrɑtnstoʊn/ in IPA phonetic transcription. The first syllable sounds like "rot" with a long "o" sound, followed by "ten" with a short "e" sound, and then "stone" with a long "o" sound. The double "t" in "rotten" can be easy to miss, and the "o" in "stone" may be confused with the "a" sound, but with practice, the spelling of "rottenstone" will become second nature.
Rottenstone, also spelled rotten stone, is a natural abrasive mineral used primarily for polishing and smoothing various surfaces. It is a fine powder composed mainly of silica, but it may also contain small amounts of aluminum oxide, iron oxide, and other minerals.
Rottenstone is typically gray or buff in color and has a soft, chalky consistency. It is formed from the powdery residue left behind by the weathering process of certain rocks, such as limestone or gypsum. The name "rottenstone" is derived from the old English word "rotten," which means crumbled or decayed.
This abrasive substance is commonly used in woodworking, metalworking, and restoration tasks. It is often applied wet, either in a paste form with the addition of water or mixed with oil, when working on delicate surfaces like furniture, musical instruments, or antique objects. Rottenstone is effective at removing minor scratches, stains, and blemishes, as well as producing a smooth and polished finish.
Due to its relatively low abrasiveness compared to other abrasives, rottenstone is less likely to damage or scratch sensitive materials. However, it should be used with caution and in conjunction with appropriate protective equipment to prevent inhalation of the fine particles.
In conclusion, rottenstone is a finely powdered mineral predominantly composed of silica, commonly employed as an abrasive for polishing and smoothing a variety of surfaces, particularly those susceptible to scratching or damage.
A soft earthy kind of stone, being decomposed silicious limestone, used in state of powder for polishing brass, silver, &c.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
The word "rottenstone" is derived from the Middle English term "rotsen" or "rotson", which meant "a rock falling into decay" or "a rock breaking into pieces". This Middle English term was borrowed from the Old French word "rocetun" or "rociston", meaning "a decomposed or crumbling stone". The French word itself can be traced back to the Latin term "roccus", which referred to a rocky mass or a rock. Over time, the Old French term evolved into "rousin" or "rotin", and eventually became "rottenstone" in English. The word is primarily used to describe a fine abrasive powder made from a soft siliceous rock, commonly used for polishing wood and metal surfaces.