A curling stone is a heavy, polished granite rock used in the sport of curling. Each stone weighs approximately 44 pounds (20 kilograms) and has a circular shape with a flat bottom. The surface of the stone is designed to slide smoothly over the ice, allowing players to deliver it towards a target area known as the house. The stone features a handle on top, which players grip to release it with precision. During a game, players slide the stone down a sheet of ice while teammates use brooms to influence its path. The objective is to place the stone as close as possible to the center of the house.