Lapidaryforum.net
Rock Art => Faceted Gems => Topic started by: BreatheDeep on July 13, 2022, 04:12:08 PM
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I just bought my first faceting machine, a Sterling ST-08, and was wondering what type of polishing lap I would need for it. It comes with a "master" lap that I'm guessing is a steel cutting lap?
If the "master" lap is a steel cutting lap, could I use one of these after it for polishing?
https://gearloose.co/shop/batt/
https://lightninglap.com/products/lightning-lap-dlite-diamond-laps?variant=39268831592602
Any help is appreciated.
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The master lap is basically a backer for thinner laps which go on top of it. There are many options for "toppers".
If you're shopping Gearloose products you're on the right track. I'm not a faceter, but my wife speaks quite highly of that guy.
There are faceting forums where you'll find recommendations for certain types of laps for certain types of stones, etc., but I'm sure you'll find a "general use" progression that works for most things.
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Thank you for clearing that up!
I think I'll go with a Lightning D'lite Diamond 600 grit lap for cutting= https://lightninglap.com/collections/laps/products/lightning-lap-dlite-diamond-laps?variant=39268831625370
For polishing I think I'll get a BATT or Darkside from Gearloose= https://gearloose.co/shop/batt/ https://gearloose.co/shop/darkside/
All were recommended by Justin Prim in his Faceting Apprentice distance course.
I'm guessing I should get the "topper" Lightning lap and not the "standard"?
I'm also planning to cut a lot of quartz for practice, as amethyst and citrine are the only stones that I can find affordable rough facet grade parcels of. It seems like polishing quartz is a little different than most other stones? If that's the case I'll go with the Darkside over the BATT.
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I've been told a 600 would be okay for small or soft stones. Coarser grit for larger stones.
Differences between toppers and standard laps are cost and convenience. If you pursue faceting long-term you'll probably buy standard laps, but in the beginning master lap and toppers sounds more logical.
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Thank you very much, you've helped me a lot!
I'll try to post some pictures once I get set up and start cutting.
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You can get lots of information on faceting laps, etc. on https://www.gemologyonline.com/Forum/phpBB2/viewforum.php?f=8
Justin Prim is a member there as is Jon Rolfe (Gearloose).
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Thank you! I just made an account there, saw his ad on the side of the page.
I bought his book The Secret Teachings of Gemcutting and signed up some of his online courses on FacetingApprentice.com. Always regretted not taking the opportunity to meet him at a lecture on the history of gem cutting while I was at GIA.