[Jewelry making - Article 00267] - Re: [Orchid] Polishing ametrine rough with a Dremel tool

[Dave Sebaste]

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Hi Tamara,

    I regret to start by telling you this probably isn't what you want
    to hear. I think you're probably considering a great way to turn some
    fine rough into scrap. If you really want to use a Dremel for this
    purpose, at least practice on some cheap "throw away" rough. 

    If your Dremel is like mine, it has a motor in it and is running on
    110v AC Power. Grinding stone, especially something as hard as
    quartz, requires a constant flow of water. The two are not usually a
    pleasant combination. A flexible shaft type arrangement would be
    better. My recommendation would be to keep the material until you can
    save up to buy the proper equipment. 

    That being said, it is *theoretically* possible to cut a flat
    surface with a small round wheel, like that used on a Dremel or
    Foredom. However, an experienced lapidary (gem cutter) would be quick
    to tell you it is very difficult. Faceters use flat "laps", thus the
    term "lapping" for grinding a flat surface. 

    Assuming for the moment that you were to undertake such an endeavor,
    you would want diamond (preferably), or silicon carbide tools for
    your Dremel. Silicon carbide, being much the same hardness as quartz
    (i.e., ametrine) would be a "hard row to hoe." Understanding the
    relative hardness of minerals is paramount in being able to cut
    gemstones successfully. 

    You would also need a successively finer series of "grits" to finish
    the stone. Rough grind with 100-200 grit (depending on the hardness
    of the material), then finish sanding with 400-600, then 1200, and
    maybe higher. Then polish with an appropriate compound. I still use
    John Sinkankas as a reference. 

    I don't mean to discourage you. Save up, and buy the right
    equipment! Shop around and keep your eyes open! You'll find what you
    need if you put your "feelers" out!  :) 

    All the best. 

Dave

Dave Sebaste
Sebaste Studio and
Carolina Artisans' Gallery
Charlotte, NC (USA)
dave AT sebaste.com
http://www.CarolinaArtisans.com


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