A type of stone that can be easily cut and shaped in any direction without breaking along natural lines, commonly used in building and sculpture.
From Old English 'free' (unrestricted) + 'stone' (rock). The term emerged in medieval times when builders noticed certain sandstones and limestones could be worked freely without splitting along grain lines, unlike slate or schist.
Freestone was the preferred material for intricate cathedral carvings and sculptures during the Middle Ages because masons could carve fine details without worrying about the stone shattering—it's why so many Gothic buildings have such delicate stonework.
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