A pizza stone is a flat, usually round slab made from materials like ceramic, stone, or cordierite. It is designed to absorb and retain heat, helping to create a crispy crust when baking pizza in an oven. The stone is preheated before placing the pizza on it, allowing for even cooking and better texture. Using a pizza stone can enhance the overall quality of homemade pizzas. It mimics the conditions of a traditional brick oven, which is known for producing high-quality pizzas. Proper care, such as avoiding soap and allowing it to cool gradually, can extend the life of a pizza stone.