Flint and Steel (variation with 3 diamonds)

A contemporary variation by Joseph D'Antoni of New York. It is based on a traditional two-diamond figure from the Caroline Islands called "Flint and Steel". Like the original, it requires a cross-arm extension.

<Full-length video in Windows Media Player>

Step-by-Step Video Clips

Written Instructions

1 2 3 4 5 6 all

Step 6 - L-over-R cross-arm movement: Rotate L hand a half turn away so that fingers point down and L palm faces you, then pass L hand to the right and up, tracing out a semicircle; at the same time pass R hand away and to the left so that forearms form an "X" (with L forearm being closest to your body). Display the figure with palms facing in opposite directions.

For many years Pacific Islanders made fire by striking a piece of flint with a steel blade. The diamonds in this string figure represent flames that suddenly appear as tinder ignites.