Kingston Limestone

["George Graham" <georgergraham@xxxxxxxxxxx>]

Stephen,

I had the good fortune to talk to a geologist about the limestone that you
have. I learned that this limestone diposite comes to the surface across
most of western NY and continues west across Ontario CA. It is a very old
and dense stone. As you have found out, it is very hard and strong. Many old
houses have this stone used for the foundation. Finished work is rarley
found in old houses, because on its difficulty to work. In the old days
people had to build with what was on hand, but when easier material could be
brought in, the local limestone was quickly set aside. Most of it is now
crushed into gravel and used for roads, concrete etc.

If you work with the stone and don't try to carve something it dosen't want
to be , then you can create some very good work. It polishes like any hard
marble, and ranges from almost solid black to light gray. Keeping your
chisels sharp is the most important thing needed to carve this stuff. Making
use of the natural textures created when it is split can add much to the
sculpture you make.

The best thing about it is that it is plentiful and very cheap! This stone
will make you learn to adapt your carving methods.

Keep working to get some Indiana Limestone, after working with your local
stone , you will think you had died and gone to stone carving heaven when
you cut into the good stuff !

Good luck
George Graham