Measure Specific Gravity
30 minutesmeasure specific gravity with precision, following established lapidary methods and verifying results at each stage.
Intermediate2-4 weeks
Gem Identification Guide
Learn gem identification from scratch with a clear step-by-step workflow, recommended tools, safety guidelines, and expert tips.
gemologistsdealers
Workflow
Test Hardness Safely
45 minutestest hardness safely with precision, following established lapidary methods and verifying results at each stage.
Check Refractive Index
60 minutescheck refractive index with precision, following established lapidary methods and verifying results at each stage.
Observe Inclusions
75 minutesobserve inclusions with precision, following established lapidary methods and verifying results at each stage.
Record ID Report
1-2 hoursrecord id report 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
Gem Identification ReferenceTable
Key benchmarks for gem identification.
| 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.