rockworld
off to a rocking start
Member since October 2014
Posts: 2 
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Post by rockworld on Oct 16, 2014 11:51:33 GMT -5
I have small pieces of obsidian stone. I firmly believe even the ugliest stone has a purpose, we just need to look for the beauty. I thought carving something besides arrowheads would be a great idea. I found a few pics online. Not too impressed, but it is a start. I am thinking the tools used would be similar to those used with glass.
I found a piece of what I consider to be depressing green in color and another that is black but I see what looks like a rust stripe in it.
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Post by kk on Oct 17, 2014 10:11:50 GMT -5
So, what are you going to do with them? Any pictures?
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gemfeller
Cave Dweller 
Member since June 2011
Posts: 4,059 
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Post by gemfeller on Oct 17, 2014 10:17:00 GMT -5
Welcome rockworld. I agree that the excitement of lapidary work lies in finding and releasing the hidden beauty in any given piece of stone. A carving is mainly a product of the mind and skilled hands; the stone is only the medium, like paint on a canvas. Obsidian should carve like most other stones: agate, jasper etc., only it's considerably softer. You should always keep in mind that it's glass and if broken or splintered it can cause deep cuts. Broken edges are so sharp that surgeons use obsidian scalpel blades for very delicate work. Don't use excess pressure when grinding. How you go about it will depend on the kind of equipment you have. Do you have a Foredom flex-shaft machine? That, with a selection of diamond grinding and sanding burs, would be my choice but other equipment can be used. Have fun!
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Don
Cave Dweller
He wants you too, Malachi.
Member since December 2009
Posts: 2,616
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Post by Don on Oct 17, 2014 11:28:07 GMT -5
wear gloves and eye protection.
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Post by FrogAndBearCreations on Nov 16, 2014 9:36:33 GMT -5
with carving obsidian be very careful to not apply too much pressure but let the diamond bits do the work. Obsidian has internal pressures that can suddenly fracture when working it in carving or cabbing. Wear finger protection against getting cut by a fractured piece.
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Fossilman
Cave Dweller
Member since January 2009
Posts: 20,722
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Post by Fossilman on Nov 16, 2014 9:56:54 GMT -5
Can't wait for the piece of art..............
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Post by Toad on Nov 16, 2014 15:31:30 GMT -5
Can't wait to see what you do with them...
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Post by Toad on Nov 16, 2014 15:31:46 GMT -5
Can't wait to see what you do with them...
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