Investing in Equipment
Moving from a rotary tool to a dedicated cabochon machine is a major milestone for any lapidary artist. These machines, commonly featuring 4 to 6 grinding and polishing wheels, streamline the process of taking a stone from rough pre-form to a glossy cabochon.
Diamond vs. Silicon Carbide
Modern machines almost exclusively use diamond wheels (hard resin and sintered diamond) rather than silicon carbide. Diamond cuts faster, runs cooler, and maintains its shape over time.
Top Considerations
- Workspace size: Consider footprint and water splashing.
- Wheel composition: Ensure there's a good progression from roughly 80 grit up to at least 3000 grit for polishing.
- Water supply: You'll need a reliable drip system to prevent real silicosis hazards.
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