I received a granite mortar and pestle for Christmas. It is highly polished on the outside, but quite rough on the inside. I asked the person who gave it to me if it was decorative or if it could be used. She said she thought I would know. I don't.

Do any of you know? I did a little grinding on it with the pestle and it produced a lot of dust. I am sure it will continue to do so for a long time. I can't imagine that eating granite dust is good for a person. Off hand, I don't actually know what a person would use a large mortar like this to do. I am guessing that it holds at least 2, and possibly 3, cups in the mortar. Any suggestions would be greatly appreciated.