Diamond Blades

• One of the most common tools used when cutting stones is diamond blades. Diamond blades are used because of their resistance to dulling during the cutting process. Since diamond stones are the hardest element on earth, it makes them ideal for this job. Diamond blades are used on jewels -- to cut them into shapes to make jewelry and other fine creations. Diamond blades are also used to cut granite and marble for countertops and flooring materials. When used as a cutting tool, small pieces of diamond are placed on the tips of a circular blade. There are many different types of diamond blades -- all driven by different levels of power. The power for the blade can be provided by either a blade saw, a chain-driven saw or a ring-driven saw.
  
  

Drill Bits

• The use of a drill with the proper type of drill bit is essential for stone-cutting. However, like any type of saw blade that is used to cut stone, drill bits must be diamond, too. Diamond drill bits that are used to cut stone come in a variety of shapes and sizes. There are two types that are most commonly used to cut stone: the blunt-hose diamond drill bit and the core-diamond drill bit. On a blunt-nose diamond drill bit, the diamonds can be found along the tip and around the sides of the drill bit. On the core-diamond drill bit, the diamonds can be found along the side of the tip of the drill bit. Both of these drill bits are used to cut various types of stone, including stone, marble, slate, fiberglass, granite, limestone, porcelain, ceramic, glass and stained glass.
  
  

Abrasive Disks

• One of the tools used to polish stone is an abrasive disk -- used to initially grind the stone to give it a smoother surface. The disks are used in combination with an abrasive powder that is spread over the surface of the stone before applying the abrasive disk. The powder helps the disk move over the stone with ease while helping to polish the stone at the same time. Abrasive disks resemble and feel like a piece of sandpaper. During the polishing process, with abrasive disks and power at work, water is spilled over the surface of the stone to act as a lubricant. The abrasive disks are then moved in circular motions over the surface of the stone.
  
  

Varnish

• After the stone has been cut and then polished with the abrasive disks, typically some type of varnish is applied to the stone. Varnish not only protects the stone, but also creates an aesthetically pleasing and clean appearance. Although varnish is not necessary in all circumstances, applying it often appeals to consumers, who tend to favor its luster.