rottenstone

American  

[rot-n-stohn] / ˈrɒt nˌstoʊn /

noun

1. a friable stone resulting from the decomposition of a siliceous limestone, used as a powder for polishing metals.

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rottenstone British  

/ ˈrɒtənˌstəʊn /

noun

1. a much-weathered limestone, rich in silica: used in powdered form for polishing metal

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Etymology

Origin of rottenstone

First recorded in 1670–80; rotten + stone

Example Sentences

I was kneeling on the other side of it, polishing the lock with an oily rag and rottenstone.

From "Chains" by Laurie Halse Anderson

A very good general polish for brass may be made of 1/2 a lb. of rottenstone and 1 oz. of oxalic acid, with as much water as will make it into a stiff paste.

From Practical Suggestions for Mother and Housewife by Miller, Marion Mills

A "Paste" Metal Polish for Cleaning and Polishing Brass.—Oxalic acid 1 part, iron peroxide 15 parts, powdered rottenstone 20 parts, palm oil 60 parts, petrolatum 4 parts.

From Burroughs' Encyclopaedia of Astounding Facts and Useful Information, 1889 by Burroughs, Barkham

Rott′enness; Rott′enstone, a soft and earthy stone powdered to polish brass, &c.—v.t. to polish with rottenstone.

From Chambers's Twentieth Century Dictionary (part 3 of 4: N-R) by Various

One of the Very Best Scouring Pastes Consists of—Oxalic acid, 1 part; Iron peroxide, 15 parts; Powdered rottenstone, 20 parts; Palm oil, 60 parts; Petrolatum, 4 parts.

From Burroughs' Encyclopaedia of Astounding Facts and Useful Information, 1889 by Burroughs, Barkham