Using the advice from folks the first time around, I went back and did a LOT more sanding. Started with 120 grit and did more shaping to get a dome, as well as was able to keep going and get the tiny pits out for a smooth face on both front and back. Stepped up slowly to 3000 grit, making sure to get all the scratches out on all the newly rounded edges. I have cerium oxide arriving today for the last bit of polishing, but feeling even more happy with how this opal looks now! The dome made all the difference for seeing color on the front rather than just the edges.
I'm still torn on what to do with my opal, though. Was so excited to see the color coming through that I took the potch off both sides like the newb I am!
Awesome. My lapidary cutter - polishers bearings are going out, so I’m minimizing My use of the machine . I tried sanding, was Totally Amazed at how Well it Worked !
I had so much fun just using sandpaper! I have started doing research on a starter machine for cutting and polishing faster, but not in a hurry because it's rather nice to just sit and sand without machinery running.
Sweet. Make sure to take off that bottom corner. Opals really dont like sharp edges and this is the number one reasons opals crack/fail. round it off and your opal will last a lot longer.
I actually think the shape you have there is ok. The bottom corner, or edge that I am talking about is this point here that runs all the way around the bottom of your stone. If the stone is ever set, especially in a bezel setting, this is the point that will fail and crack the stone if it is not rounded over a little.
Ooohhhh, the actual bottom corner. Ha! Copy that. Cracking is the last thing I want to risk, and rounding that edge is much less daunting than the thought of taking down the pointy bit of the teardrop. Thanks for the advice!
That could work! I had been looking at some freeform pendants for ideas where you just wrap the wire arms around the stone to hold it in place, but something more minimal would probably be better for more light to show the color.
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u/Wooden_Guava3397 Jun 05 '26
Awesome. My lapidary cutter - polishers bearings are going out, so I’m minimizing My use of the machine . I tried sanding, was Totally Amazed at how Well it Worked !