The article discusses Ailsa Craig, a small uninhabited island off the coast of Scotland that has gained fame for being the source of all curling stones used in the current Winter Olympic Games in Milan-Cortina, Italy. Each curling stone is crafted from unique granite found on the island, weighing around 20 kg, and costs between $850 and $1,200. Mikel Unanue, a professional curler, reflects on the demand and uniqueness of these stones, highlighting their artisanal nature which prevents exact replicas.

The narrative explores the history of curling and its rise in popularity during the Winter Games, emphasizing how the sport relies heavily on Ailsa Craig for its distinctive stones. Initially, curling stones were made from river stones, but as the sport evolved, the need for less porous and more durable stones became apparent, leading to the discovery of this