These are traditional stone hand grinders, also known
as quern-stones, am m i kal, or atta kal. They are collect-
ible, antique, or vintage kitchen tools used for
m anually grinding spices, grains, and pulses. The
item s are m ade of heavy, durable stone. They were his-
torically com m on in Indian rural house-
holds before the advent of m odern
electric blenders and grinders. Different
types are visible, including the saddle
quern style (flat base with a roller) and
rotary querns (circular stones with a central hole).
Grinding with these tools generates less heat than
m achine grinding, which helps retain the natural
flavors and arom as of the ingredients.