Mark Sphere Axes
30 minutesmark sphere axes with precision, following established lapidary methods and verifying results at each stage.
Intermediate2-3 weeks
Sphere Making Project
Learn sphere making project from scratch with a clear step-by-step workflow, recommended tools, safety guidelines, and expert tips.
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Workflow
Rough Grind in Cups
45 minutesrough grind in cups with precision, following established lapidary methods and verifying results at each stage.
Check Roundness
60 minutescheck roundness with precision, following established lapidary methods and verifying results at each stage.
Fine Grind and Polish
75 minutesfine grind and polish with precision, following established lapidary methods and verifying results at each stage.
Measure Diameter
1-2 hoursmeasure diameter 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
Sphere Making Project ReferenceTable
Key benchmarks for sphere making project.
| 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.