Polish Gemstones With The Model T Kit Rock Tumbler

Eli Batton Posted in Lapidary Equipment, Rock Tumblers | No Comments »

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Anyone can create polished gemstones from raw materials with the help of a Model T Kit Rock Tumbler. Tumbling describes the action needed to smooth away the rough edges of a stone or piece of agate to reveal the inner beauty. The rotary drum machine is the most popular piece of equipment used for this polishing process. With a little bit of practice and a lot of patience anyone can coax a beautiful gem out of its rough shell.

Agate and stones are naturally agitated by the gentle movement of the ocean in a process that takes centuries. With a tumbling machine, the rocks are handled in the same way but it takes much less time to achieve the results that are desired. Polishing abrasives are agitated along with the rocks to give them something to rub up against. This rubbing action will eventually yield a smooth gemstone.

This method is simple enough for people of all ages to do. The entire process from raw material to polished stone will take several weeks depending on the type of stone being processed. The first step utilizes a very coarse grit and the total time required is determined by the material.

The rocks are washed and the process is repeated twice more with increasingly finer grit. The final step involves the use of a polishing compound like ferric oxide or cerium oxide.

This equipment can pull double duty as a fine jewelry cleaner. The jewelry pieces are loaded into the drum with mild soap and smooth steel shot. They are also handy for jewelry makers who need to get rid of burrs on metal surfaces.

Most of these machines will last a lifetime if taken care of properly. Users may experience the occasional broken belt but this is usually due to putting too much weight in the barrel. If this does occur, replacement belts are available for purchase.

The Model T Kit Rock Tumbler has a rubber barrel that can handle three pounds of rocks. The motor is 115V and is equipped with impedance protection. The kit also comes with four grades of polishing grit, a collection of jewelry findings and an instruction booklet.

For more about the the Model T Kit Rock Tumbler we also sell new and used Lapidary Tumblers stop by our online store: DiscountLapidaryEquipment.com.

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