People of all ages are discovering how much fun it is to create beautiful polished gemstones from various types of raw material with the Model T Kit Rock Tumbler. The rotating action works to smooth all the rough edges on agate and stones to reveal the natural beauty hidden inside. Many hobbyists prefer equipment that has a rotary drum. It takes time and patience to smooth away the rough shell and reveal the gem inside but it can be a very rewarding activity.

Agate and stones are naturally agitated by the gentle movement of the ocean in a process that takes centuries. With a tumbling machine, the rocks are handled in the same way but it takes much less time to achieve the results that are desired. Polishing abrasives are agitated along with the rocks to give them something to rub up against. This rubbing action will eventually yield a smooth gemstone.

This method is simple enough for people of all ages to do. The entire process from raw material to polished stone will take several weeks depending on the type of stone being processed. The first step utilizes a very coarse grit and the total time required is determined by the material.

The rocks are washed and the process is repeated twice more with increasingly finer grit. The final step involves the use of a polishing compound like ferric oxide or cerium oxide.

This equipment can also be used to clean and polish pieces of jewelry. It is also effective for removing burrs from metal pieces used in jewelry making.

Most of these machines will last a lifetime if taken care of properly. Users may experience the occasional broken belt but this is usually due to putting too much weight in the barrel. If this does occur, replacement belts are available for purchase.

The Model T Kit Rock Tumbler will hold three pounds of material and has a 115V motor. An informative booklet is included with the kit along with polishing grit in four different sizes and a starter set of findings for making jewelry out of the polished stones.

For more reviews of the Model T Kit Rock Tumbler or if you are looking to buy a discount Rock Tumbler head over to our online store: DiscountLapidaryEquipment.com.