Curling Stones

Curling Stones

Curling stones, also known as rocks, are the specialized equipment used in the sport of curling. They are made of a dense, polished granite and are circular in shape, with a diameter of approximately 11 inches and a weight of around 44 pounds. The bottom of the stone is concave, allowing it to glide smoothly along the ice, while the top is convex and has a handle attached to it, which is used by the player to deliver the stone down the playing surface. The granite used to make curling stones is sourced from only two places in the world: Ailsa Craig, an island off the coast of Scotland, and Trefor Granite Quarry in Wales. The granite is carefully selected for its durability, density, and consistency, and is then shaped into a circular form using precision machinery. The stones are then polished to a high shine, which not only enhances their appearance but also improves their performance on the ice. During a game of curling, two teams take turns sliding their stones down the playing surface, aiming to get them as close as possible to the target, known as the house. The stones are delivered with a spin, which causes them to curl or curve as they travel down the ice, hence the name of the sport. The weight of the stone, combined with the skill of the player, determines how far it will travel and how much it will curl. Curling stones are an essential part of the sport of curling, and their design and construction have evolved over time to improve their performance and durability. They are a testament to the precision and skill involved in the sport, and are a symbol of the rich history and tradition of curling.

Curling, Granite, Ailsa Craig, Trefor Granite Quarry, Spin

— Paul Davis