Diamond Polishing and Compound Tools
- Diamond paste is used to polish a cut diamond stone. The paste is composed of finely ground diamond particles that have a gentle yet abrasive polishing effect on the stone, increasing its overall shine and brilliance. Diamond paste can also come in a powder form which you must mix with water or a special lubricant prior to application.
- A polishing cloth is used to apply the diamond paste directly onto the surface of the diamond. A dry polishing cloth can also be used on its own to clean, buff, and polish the surface of a gemstone. Polishing cloths are normally made out of a soft, natural fabric, such as pure flannel cotton, to prevent scratching to the surface of the stone.
- Polishing wheels are small circular plates that are attached to a power main or battery powered hand-operated tool, which causes the wheel to rotate at a high speed. You hold the rotating wheel to the surface of the diamond, and the friction causes it to gently polish the stone. Polishing wheels are most commonly made out of leather or felt.
- A dop is a piece of machinery used to keep a diamond or precious gemstone held securely in place while you work on the stone. The stone is inserted into a small clamp which is tightened using a screw system to hold the stone still. This allows the surface area of the diamond to be easily polished. Dops are usually made out of a hard metals such as wrought iron or steel.
- A diamond syringe is sometimes used to contain the diamond paste. The paste is inserted into a transparent plastic syringe, which when pressed releases paste from the syringe tip, allowing for application to small or hard to reach diamond surfaces. Non-permanent colored dies are added to the different types of diamond paste, allowing you to easily differentiate between the various pastes.