Select Rough Stone
30 minutesselect rough stone with precision, following established lapidary methods and verifying results at each stage.
Beginner2-3 weeks
First Cabochon Cut Guide
Learn first cabochon cut from scratch with a clear step-by-step workflow, recommended tools, safety guidelines, and expert tips.
lapidary beginnersrock hounds
Workflow
Trim to Preform
45 minutestrim to preform with precision, following established lapidary methods and verifying results at each stage.
Grind Dome Shape
60 minutesgrind dome shape with precision, following established lapidary methods and verifying results at each stage.
Sand Through Grits
75 minutessand through grits with precision, following established lapidary methods and verifying results at each stage.
Polish on Canvas
1-2 hourspolish on canvas 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
Prep
Baseline
Quality
Tracking
Reference Materials
First Cabochon Cut ReferenceTable
Key benchmarks for first cabochon cut.
| 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.