noun
- Plural of pipestone; a fine-grained, easily carved stone (typically red catlinite) traditionally used by Native Americans to make ceremonial pipes.
Usage: Often capitalized when referring to the sacred stone quarries, especially Pipestone National Monument in Minnesota.; Historical and cultural significance in Native American traditions.
Examples
- The artisans carved intricate designs into the pipestones.
- Pipestones were highly valued by indigenous peoples for their spiritual significance.
- The red pipestones found at the quarry were prized for making ceremonial pipes.
- Native American craftspeople have worked with pipestones for centuries.
- The museum displayed several artifacts made from polished pipestones.