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Post by JUDY on Aug 12, 2004 15:38:11 GMT -5
Can anyone suggest what kind of grinder or polisher to buy. I have noticed several combo ones but I am still new to this and not sure if that would be a good way to go. Judy
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Post by krazydiamond on Aug 12, 2004 17:08:04 GMT -5
what a can of proverbial worms that opens.......
what are you looking to accomplish with this grinder, Judy?
more input required! KD
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Post by Judy on Aug 12, 2004 17:28:27 GMT -5
I have been tumbling for a short time and would like to use some of the stones in jewelry or other things. I would also like to start making Cabachons. I guess just in general to be able to shape some of these stones.
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Post by connrock on Aug 12, 2004 18:37:51 GMT -5
Hi Judy,,, First let me welcome you to our group!! You'll have a blast here with all of us!! When KD said a "can of worms" she wasn't kidding and I really don't think a can is big enough. There are so many brands and types within each brand that it's really very hard to suggest to someone which is best suited for there own need and most of all they're pocket book. The only unit that I can speak about is a Genie which is made by Diamond Pacific. It's a great unit but it's also expensive.It has 6 diamond wheels and you can grind,sand and polish a cab in about 10-20 minuets. I think I paid somewhere around $1100.00 for it about 5-6 years ago but I'm sure it's more expensive then that by now. Anyway,,,,I love it and am very hsappy that I bought it!! Tom
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Post by rockyraccoon on Aug 12, 2004 21:09:31 GMT -5
judy doc suggested awhile back that a good starter combo unit would be the lortone combination unit. i haven't broken down and gotten one yet but when i do it will either be the lortone or genie - that genie sure looks fun!
kim
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Post by BearCreekLapidary on Aug 13, 2004 1:16:16 GMT -5
Hello Judy, I have to side with Tom on this one. I have used silicone carbide units and diamond units, and when it comes to quality ... I would get a Diamond Unit like the Genie from Diamond Pacific (they do make smaller units as well, with 4" wheels). They have a smaller version of this model as well, it's called the "Pixie". It will turn out the same quality stones that Genie will and it's small enough to take with you. Don't listen to them about being clean enough to use on your kitchen table though! It's not a total mess, but you'll definitely be wiping the surface down a lot . What are you wanting to do with your machine? Make cabs for yourself, friends or family? Make cabs for metalsmiths, or jewelers? The diamond machines are pricey, but they turn out the best quality cabs (in my opinion). Silicone carbide wheels eventually need to be dressed (ground to a flat surface again). As you gring rock the face of the silicone carbide wheels, they will become concaved and need to be dressed to bring them back to a suitable working wheel. The diamong units never need dressed, so you will not have to purchase a dressing tool (like you would need for a silicone carbide unit). I have cut thousands of cabs on my Genie and I need to get a couple of wheels replaced (about 125.00 a wheel), whereas the silicone carbide wheels can be purchased for considerably less. So, there are any factors that you can ask yourself and your dealer (if you decide to purchase a brand new machine) as to what might be best suited for your specific requirements. I have seen some absolutely gorgeous stones made with silicone carbide units and the same with the diamond wheel units, each has their respective pro's and con's. It's whatever you like and want to spend on the unit. Good luck in your search and if you have any other questions, please do not hesitate to ask. Enjoy, John
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