Expert: orlando cajamarca - 10/25/2009

Question
QUESTION: I purchased some ruby beads to make some necklaces.  They are dull - not shiny.  They do not glow or sparkle like some beads.

Is there any way to polish these stones?

Thank you.

ANSWER: Hi Elin,

Yes there is, if you have a tumbler either rotary or vibratory, it is very simple to use.
check this link for more information.
http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0006N6PRI

Hope it helps,

Orlando

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: What kind of medium should I use in the tumbler?  Dialmond Dust? What grit? or a commercial compound?

Same question for amethyst beads?

Thank you so much.

Answer
Hi Elin
Here is the link for the supplies, use al 4 steps.
4-Step Gemstone Finishing Kit

http://www.dadsrockshop.com/tumbler_gemfinish.html
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 4-Step Grit and Polish Kit - Designed for rotary tumblers. Will polish up to 14 pounds of stones. Contains coarse, medium and fine silicon carbide. Also contains top quality tumbling polish. For excellent results on a wide range of stones, from soft to hard. Each plastic jar has a recloseable lid. $19.95