hõõrdkivide

Hõõrdkivide, also known as grinding stones, are traditional tools used in Estonia and other Baltic countries for grinding and polishing various materials. These tools consist of two main components: a flat stone and a round stone. The flat stone, typically made of sandstone or granite, is used for grinding and shaping materials such as wood, metal, and food. The round stone, often made of flint or other hard materials, is used for polishing and smoothing surfaces.

The use of hõõrdkivide dates back to prehistoric times and has been an essential part of daily life in rural communities. Traditionally, these tools were used for tasks such as sharpening knives, grinding grain, and polishing leather. They were also used in the production of traditional crafts, such as pottery and woodworking.

Today, hõõrdkivide are still used in some rural areas for their traditional and practical purposes. However, they have largely been replaced by modern machinery and tools in urban and industrial settings. Despite this, hõõrdkivide remain an important part of Estonian cultural heritage and are often used in traditional festivals and events.

In recent years, there has been a resurgence of interest in hõõrdkivide, with many artisans and craftspeople rediscovering their traditional uses. This has led to a renewed appreciation for these tools and their role in preserving cultural traditions.