lagniappe
off to a rocking start
Member since June 2014
Posts: 18
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Post by lagniappe on Jun 24, 2014 11:43:43 GMT -5
I have a few ruby and sapphire pieces I found in North Carolina a few years ago. I've become interested in rocks again a few weeks ago so pulled out my tubs of rocks. I did tumble a few of them but the outside of the crystal is still covered in some type of rock. Did I just not tumble long enough or do I have to find a way to remove it before tumbling?
I ordered a few attachments along with some diamond grinding pieces for my dremel which should be here in a few days. Hopeing to start getting some of these rocks in shape to be able to wire wrap them.
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Post by jakesrocks on Jun 24, 2014 12:12:53 GMT -5
Your diamond grinding bits must be run wet if you expect them to last more than one or two grinding sessions. To do that with your Dremel, you'll need the flex shaft attachment. Remember, electricity and water don't mix. You want to keep the Dremel motor as far away from water as possible. Using the flex shaft, grind away the matrix in a bowl of water. It's going to be messy, so work outside if possible. Don't try to force your tool. Let the diamonds do the work. Patience and a steady hand are all you need to remove the matrix without removing too much of your gemstones.
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lagniappe
off to a rocking start
Member since June 2014
Posts: 18
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Post by lagniappe on Jun 25, 2014 14:56:55 GMT -5
thanks for that info jakesrocks! I've been doing a lot of reading about it this past week and will be setting up an area and a drip for my work. Believe it or not, I use a small hand sander that has a modified plastic shoe with ridges that I use for making felted scarves, so I'm familiar with working with tools around water and getting really messy Ground fault outlet and extension cords, for sure
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Post by jakesrocks on Jun 25, 2014 15:40:52 GMT -5
You may need more than a drip system. The idea is to keep the tool bit cool, and flush the loose material away from the area you're working on. Corundum is very hard material, and grinding on it without enough water will quickly overheat and ruin diamond bits.
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lagniappe
off to a rocking start
Member since June 2014
Posts: 18
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Post by lagniappe on Jun 26, 2014 10:57:24 GMT -5
thanks, I'll keep that in mind
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