is that real? I pretty sure only nakayama stones had the maruka mark
It is always a very hard question to answer when it comes to these stones. I don't have the most authority towards giving an answer but I sure can share my own perspectives. Some sources suggest that while the Maruka stamp primarily indicates stones from Nakayama, other mines, including Narutaki, have also used this stamp on high-quality stones to signify their superior characteristics, for example the maruka stamped asagi. On top of that, narutaki and nakayama are Higashi Mono mines known for their awasedo, also happens to be right next to each other, qualities of the stones are very similar. These added complexity to identifying the true origin of the stones based solely on the stamp which means thats the furthest I can tell from the mark it self. Leading back to the stone it self, it performs amazingly great, cuts suprisingly fast even with lots of water and it's purchased from a reputable buyer with a suitable market price, not some 200 dollar Ukeai Junshou Honyama from ebay.
Some conclusions from top if reading is too much
The stone is probably not from nakayama mine but could be "nakayama" (be a jackpot if it really is tho)
Worthy quality for the stamp (personal preference)
Not only nakayama can have maruka stamp
Reasonable price
If any false claims are made or misconception, feel free to correct me, I'm all ears to listen
Bought a kiridashi today so at least get to do some example of it, haven't had a chance to flatten the edge surface yet.
