Ailsa Craig: The Granite Gem Behind Olympic Curling Stones

Post by : Bianca Suleiman

Ailsa Craig, an isolated island situated 10 miles (16 kilometers) off Scotland's southwestern coast, is pivotal for the Winter Olympics, providing the unique granite essential for curling stones.

Kays Curling, located in Mauchline near Ayr, holds the exclusive rights to extract granite from this island. They have been supplying stones for the Winter Games since curling became a recognized event in 1924 in Chamonix, continuing through the sport's revival in Nagano in 1998. Co-owner Jim English notes that their stones have likely contributed to every medal awarded since then.

During regular inspections on Ailsa Craig, English carefully examines granite boulders for imperfections. The island boasts two distinct types of granite: the common green variety, which forms the stone's core, and the blue hone, recognized for its dense, waterproof properties and utilized on the surface that skates across the ice. These qualities are vital for curling, where stones must endure repeated contact and frigid conditions without damage.

Geology suggests that the microgranite found on Ailsa Craig was formed through volcanic activity eons ago. Its flexibility helps to absorb shock during impacts, while the blue hone granite guarantees smooth, reliable performance on the ice. Experts assert that this specific granite type is unrivaled worldwide.

The extraction methods differ; the common green granite typically falls naturally and can be gathered in large blocks weighing as much as 10 tons. Meanwhile, blue hone is carefully removed using gas charges along natural fissures, generating smaller pieces under two tons. These stones are transported to Girvan Harbour, where they are shaped into circular forms and processed by Kays. The completed stones weigh approximately 42 pounds (19 kilograms), with a single-insert stone priced at £704 ($930) and a double-insert version at £750 ($990). A complete set of 16 double-insert stones can cost £12,000 ($15,860).

Environmental conservation is a critical focus. The island hosts significant populations of gannets and gray seals. Rigorous measures are implemented to keep rodents away, with rat traps set to safeguard the local fauna.

The global interest in curling is on the rise. Kays produces around 1,800 to 2,000 stones each year, with Canada as their largest market. Demand has surged in China, Japan, and South Korea, particularly after the 2022 Beijing Winter Olympics. The company has even shipped stones to surprising destinations, including Qatar and Antarctica, where curling is included in luxury travel offerings.

As the Milan Cortina Winter Games approach, Ailsa Craig’s special granite will once again play a central role in Olympic curling, solidifying the island's enduring impact on the sport.