Wyoming's geological survey suggests the state has rock formations suitable for producing Olympic-grade curling stones, potentially challenging the monopoly held by Scotland and Wales. State Sen. Cale Case presented the idea to lawmakers, aiming to boost economic development through quarrying. The proposal stems from a recent study highlighting similar mineralogy in Wyoming granites.
On Wednesday, JoAnn True, chair of the Wyoming Geological Survey, informed the Joint Minerals, Business and Economic Development Committee that at least three Wyoming granite formations share the mineralogy of those used in Wales and Scotland, the world's only commercial sources for curling stones. "Indicating that the same mineralogy that exists in Wales and in Scotland, where they source them, also exists in three, at least three, granites in Wyoming," True told the committee, referencing a paper from Canadian researchers.
Curling stones must be dense, fine-grained granite with low water absorption to glide accurately on ice and endure thousands of deliveries without damage. Olympic rules require stones to weigh between 17.24 kg (38 pounds) and 19.96 kg (44 pounds), including handle and bolt, typically made from granite sourced from Ailsa Craig island off Scotland and the Trefor quarry in Wales.
True, appearing at the request of Sen. Cale Case, R-Lander, asked the committee to direct the survey to identify surface outcrops for potential quarrying. Case, who organized a local curling program while building a skating rink in Lander, renewed his interest after watching the recent Winter Olympics. He noted Wyoming stone tops the legislative desks and proposed the University of Wyoming produce an initial set for publicity, challenging Scottish makers. "We make a big deal out of it. We have a competition with our Scottish competition," Case said.
Sen. Ed Cooper, R-Ten Sleep, highlighted broader potential for the material in countertops and building stone. Case described the idea as an entry to developing Wyoming's overlooked dimensional stone industry, involving the Wyoming Business Council. Committee co-chair Sen. Jim Anderson, R-Casper, expressed skepticism about curling's appeal, though Case cited its Olympic popularity.
The initiative began during a lunch break at the survey offices in Laramie, where geologist Collin Jensen referenced a 2022 Canadian Mineralogist paper by Derek D.V. Leung and Andrew M. McDonald. The study found no unique geology in U.K. rocks, pointing to Wyoming candidates like Sherman Granite, Laramie Anorthosite, and Sage Hen granite in areas such as the Granite Mountains. Fieldwork is needed to confirm suitability, as grain size and unstrained quartz affect durability. Finished stones sell for $600 to $1,500, with Kays Scotland producing 35 weekly and exporting to 60 countries.
Whether the topic advances depends on committee priorities submitted by Thursday.
