Rottenstone is a mild abrasive in the form of a very finely powdered soft yellowstone used in the hand polishing of varnished work. Linseed oil is generally used as a lubricant for the rottenstone. Found on http://www.probertencyclopaedia.com/browse/GR.HTM
Rottenstone is a light, porous, somewhat friable, siliceous rock used for polishing steel and other metals. It consists almost entirely of silica, with a small percentage of alumina and other impurities, and is derived from siliceous limestones after the removal of the calcareous matter. Found on http://www.probertencyclopaedia.com/browse/HR.HTM