Dop Stone to Mast
30 minutesdop stone to mast with precision, following established lapidary methods and verifying results at each stage.
Intermediate1-2 months
Faceting Basics
Learn faceting basics from scratch with a clear step-by-step workflow, recommended tools, safety guidelines, and expert tips.
facetersgem cutters
Workflow
Cut Main Facets
45 minutescut main facets with precision, following established lapidary methods and verifying results at each stage.
Meet Girdle Line
60 minutesmeet girdle line with precision, following established lapidary methods and verifying results at each stage.
Polish Facets
75 minutespolish facets with precision, following established lapidary methods and verifying results at each stage.
Inspect Symmetry
1-2 hoursinspect symmetry with precision, following established lapidary methods and verifying results at each stage.
Tools Used
- Wire Wrapping Length CalculatorPrimary
Primary measurement and calculation tool for this workflow.
- Wire-Wrap Centerline Path ReconciliationPrimary
Verify measurements and validate results against specifications.
- Carat to Gram ConverterSupporting
Secondary calculations for material quantities and proportions.
Checklist
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Planning
Preparation
Safety
Execution
Quality
Documentation
Reference Materials
Faceting Basics ReferenceTable
Key benchmarks for faceting basics.
| Grit | Purpose | Time |
|---|---|---|
| 80 | Rough grind | Coarse |
| 220 | Shape | Medium |
| 14000 | Polish | Fine |
Cabochon DomeFormula
Height : width ratio typically 0.6-0.7 for standard oval
Silica DustStandard
Lapidary slurry contains silica — wet grind and wear respirator.
Wet Grind Only
Keep stone wet while grinding — dry silica dust causes silicosis.
Grit Progression
Never skip grit steps — each stage removes scratches from the previous.
Eye Protection
Wear safety glasses even when wet grinding — slurry splashes at high speed.
Safety Notes
- Silica dust causes silicosis — wet grind and wear N95 respirator.
- Secure workpieces in vise — spinning wheels throw stones at high speed.