Polishing Rocks By Hand

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  • เผยแพร่เมื่อ 8 ก.ค. 2021
  • How to polish rocks by hand without any machines or tools in under an hour. In this I test out a method of polishing rough Boulder Opal and chalcedony rough on glass using tumbler grit. It’s cheap and pretty easy compared to sandpaper. And you don’t even need a rock tumbler!!
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ความคิดเห็น • 379

  • @paddiman772
    @paddiman772 2 ปีที่แล้ว +41

    Jesse, I have been watching your videos for a while on our TV, so I thought it best to finally subscribe, as I wanted to comment on this video from July 2021 on polishing Chalcedony & Boulder Opal. Your presentations are always fun spirited. Now being a gem facetor, I realize that I'm going to "rub" things the wrong way with some of your viewers. But I'm going to take issue with the process you showed to flatten and then to "polish" your stones.
    Oh, where do I start? First of all I know cabbers use Silicone Carbide a lot because it cuts fast and it's cheap. And for initial cutting and shaping, that will work fine. But when you want a killer polished face, you need to graduate to Aluminum Oxide (Alox), and Cerium Oxide (Ceox) for most rocks. When you get into Sapphires, then only Alox and Diamond will do. Silicone Carbide also works but is generally too aggressive due to the structure of the grains. Gemstones do not like to be bullied! They like, the fairer fillies amongst us, like to be carefully finessed. TIN oxide is an excellent an amendment to any final polishing slurry. Tin is very expensive, but it's pretty soft at about 5 mohs. It's good to add a bit to your final polish. It chemically reduces surface tension allowing the main polish to do a better job.
    Okay, that said, everything involved in polishing will lose ions during the process; your substrate (glass panel), the silicone carbide, and of course, the stone. So over the course of abrading the stone, the glass will also be cut, as it's only 6.5 mohs, while the Silicone Carbide is about 9 mohs. This means you won't be getting a true flat facet, when using the same space on the glass plate. In other words, it's wearing equally as fast as the stone. The grit however is reducing in size as you scuff it.
    Now that brings me to the reason for commenting. As you surface grind, all of the Swarf is getting mixed into the developing slurry. And it's not being washed away! When a facetor is polishing a stone, damaging swarf is rinsed away with the constant water drip and spinning lap. Hence, the very reason why your work isn't blindingly brilliant! Please refer to my following YT channel links. I'm not trying sell you anything, just educate. Thanks (LL-Cabber in use)

    Seriously, Ceox and Alox should be your best friends when polishing your rocks. I could go on and on about the subject of polishing, as that has been my business for more years than I care to say.
    Everyone has their own pet ways of doing things, which is fine. So I hope I've awakened a desire to use a better way of making your gems make you go nearly blind with brilliance! My mantra is "Polishing IS Everything!"

    • @Rookie_Rockounding
      @Rookie_Rockounding  2 ปีที่แล้ว +29

      Paddiman!!!!
      My friend I am so grateful for your comment and the knowledge that you’ve shared within it. You gave constuctive criticism in the best form possible. It was a compliment sandwich and man was it full of knowledge.
      Thank you. Thank you for the insight you’ve shared with not just me but anyone who’s reading the comments. I’ve pinned your comment because what you wrote was professional and super informative but also in such a kind way that you set a genuinely good hearted example for others who know better than I do, in how to help myself and other home lapidary’s. Thank you mate.
      You’ve convinced me to order some new grit. I’ve been working on a tumbling video this last few weeks that will be released soon but I just wanted to let you know that if you see that, and think I haven’t taken on board what you’ve shared it’s only because ive already filmed the first couple of stages and all I had was silicone carbide.
      Thank you for making the effort and taking the time to kindly teach myself and others who come across this video. I genuinely mean that mate.
      Thank you and god bless 😊

    • @paddiman772
      @paddiman772 2 ปีที่แล้ว +9

      @@Rookie_Rockounding Jessie, What I like about your channel is the genuine happy feel every time I go with you video-wise, on your fossiking jaunts. Wish I could actually go with sometime, but we're half a world away mate!
      Now I wasn't totally dissing on Silicon Carbide, as it has it's place in initial rock processing. But I've done my share of tumbling, and flat-lapping of heavy chunks of rock, and Alox and Ceox are better choices along with a little Tin to get the job done.
      As a facetor, I cringe when I see how some do their rock polishing. Even saw some rocks which someone had coated with enamel spray or similar, just so they would shine! Arrrghhhh!
      Many of the rocks you get are really choice! Keep up the hunt! You are so lucky to have the knowledge and energy to go beating and wallowing through the bush! Am sure you're careful never to put your hands where you can't see them? There's plenty of places like that on this side of the pond. No reason to be cavalier. As old Mr. Snake or spider might take a chunk out of your hand!
      I noticed how you were having trouble with the sander grabbing the rocks and flinging them. You would do well to find or make a flat lap to hold your rocks against while they polish. There's plenty of cheap rigs out there. But you could build one. It needs to have a water tank, and "drip pan" of some sort to catch the watery slurry and drain it off. Those diamond pads are not very friendly due to the spaces in the laps. You need a more solid lap with a continuous working media. Those you have are best for polishing large granite countertops. It's what they were designed for. Since you are in the land of OZ, take a look at the site called, "GemCuts.com" to see what they have to offer. Brian, the owner has everything a stone/gem cutter of any persuasion will want to have.

    • @loripalmieri1205
      @loripalmieri1205 ปีที่แล้ว +6

      THAT was the nicest constructive criticism I've seen on TH-cam! So many are quick to tell everything you're doing wrong without trying to help. Bravo! 👏

    • @jestilson
      @jestilson 10 หลายเดือนก่อน +2

      I'm not new to rockhounding, but am new to polishing my finds. Just subscribed to you both because 1. I feel I can learn from both of you and 2. wow, what a kind internet exchange - so rare these days! :) Anyways, this got me started on understanding how to get the most from my agate treasures!

  • @michellesgarden5695
    @michellesgarden5695 2 ปีที่แล้ว +85

    Once upon a time the world didnt have electricity..polished rocks and jewellery existed. Its good for people to know how these things were done.

    • @Rookie_Rockounding
      @Rookie_Rockounding  2 ปีที่แล้ว +6

      Yeah, I like this Michelle. It’s so true. One day I’d love to try and polish a stone how it was done in the times where Pharaoh’s were adorned by polished gems.

    • @axelgranzini6797
      @axelgranzini6797 2 ปีที่แล้ว +3

      @@Rookie_Rockounding do you mind me asking how that was done?

    • @caseytyler8326
      @caseytyler8326 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      @@axelgranzini6797sand was used as an abrasive desert sand is much finer than beach sand

  • @GeoThaDude
    @GeoThaDude 7 หลายเดือนก่อน +4

    I've always been taught to sand in straight lines when wet sanding/polishing and to rotate your item 90 degrees between grits. That way you can see any scratches still in the surface more easily because they'll be perpendicular to your current sanding direction. With swirls, its much more difficult to see the scratches until you're closer to your finished polish. I've done this for painted and unpainted steel, stones, and plastic (headlight covers) and haven't had issues with scratches. This is the same way that automotive paint gets sanded. Also, scratches in a straight line will be less noticeable in the end as the viewing angle has to be in a specific orientation to see the light reflecting off of it. With a swirl scratch, you get infinitely more angles that the light will reflect off the scratch and back to the viewer.

    • @Rookie_Rockounding
      @Rookie_Rockounding  7 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

      I never even thought of the angles but that makes a tonne of sense. Super helpful mate, thank you!

  • @elainebates6967
    @elainebates6967 2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Wow, the Boulder Opals are so amazing! The information you have shared is very helpful, thank you.

  • @questingforquartz3407
    @questingforquartz3407 2 ปีที่แล้ว +3

    Great video thank you! That last rock was incredible. I just kept replaying it. Gorgeous!

  • @denisesummers3107
    @denisesummers3107 2 ปีที่แล้ว +3

    That last stone was absolutely beautiful ! I would love to have 1in my collection.

  • @aprils5881
    @aprils5881 2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Gorgeous! I can't believe how quick they went.

  • @justjulee9135
    @justjulee9135 2 ปีที่แล้ว +3

    The Boulder opal was on fire 🔥! That is a beautiful stone! Thank you for the video!!

  • @rawdawgpendants5490
    @rawdawgpendants5490 2 ปีที่แล้ว +7

    That boulder opal is very sweet. Pure eye candy. Loving it loving it.

    • @Rookie_Rockounding
      @Rookie_Rockounding  2 ปีที่แล้ว

      Aye thank you Jas brother! Hope you’re doin well mate! Have a rad week ahead bud 👊

    • @1catfishuntermiller753
      @1catfishuntermiller753 2 ปีที่แล้ว

      Hiya Raw Dowg, dude! What's up? I hope you're doing well today, Jesse scored some awesome looking opals right, I haven't seen you on Caleko's channel in awhile, anyway it's awesome to see you on here, I hope you have a awesome blessed day. Cya! 😺🐟out!

  • @Rookie_Rockounding
    @Rookie_Rockounding  2 ปีที่แล้ว +36

    I have to say a masssssssive THANK YOU to Pauly @paul the rockhound for giving me these pieces of Boulder Opal. Friends like him are few and far between.
    If you have any questions on how this method went or how to do it, please let me know. Until next video, mega much love guys n gals!

    • @rebeccaofsunnybrookefarm8469
      @rebeccaofsunnybrookefarm8469 2 ปีที่แล้ว +3

      @Rookie Rockhounding, I have some of that opal.. I've purchased from a man who mined it. I have always wondered how to polish it.
      Definitely thanks to Paul the Rockhound.
      I understand why one would use the glass for this polish as the muddy that occurs when doing the yawa stone that is the matrix for boulder opal is a mess.

    • @aprils5881
      @aprils5881 2 ปีที่แล้ว +2

      I've been wanting to get my hands on some boulder opals...
      That last one you did...😳🤯😍

  • @jamiedonahue9811
    @jamiedonahue9811 ปีที่แล้ว

    WOW that boulder opal is ABSOLUTELY BEAUTIFUL!!❤❤ it!! great job polishing it!!

  • @gwynnfarrell1856
    @gwynnfarrell1856 2 ปีที่แล้ว +8

    Thank you for demonstrating this technique! I'm definitely going to try it. I mostly work with small rocks anyway so this is perfect! Wow, what a boulder opal! Electric!

  • @dandickinson1003
    @dandickinson1003 2 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    What a cool idea! Thanks for sharing this method!

  • @suejarrard2221
    @suejarrard2221 2 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    So awesome to see alternative ways to polish stones rather than buying another machine. Those Boulder opals were beautiful! Blessings

  • @kellycarroll651
    @kellycarroll651 หลายเดือนก่อน

    I’m so excited! I’ve always wanted a tumbler and have so many crystals that I’m just waiting for the day to get a good tumbler and now I know I don’t actually need it for a lot of them! Great info and video! Thank you!

  • @GeoRockNerd
    @GeoRockNerd 2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Impressive, it really didn’t take as long as I expected! Those opals are amazing! Thanks for another great video!

  • @biscuitEMT
    @biscuitEMT 2 ปีที่แล้ว +3

    What a novel idea! Thanks so much for this demonstration! Looks like a great option for a matte finish.

  • @crosscutter5388
    @crosscutter5388 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    Thank you for this video. Hand polishing is definately a longer way to polish but i personally find it relaxing and satisfying. Beautiful stones and i agree that last opal is the most beautiful you polished.

  • @dillydilly7693
    @dillydilly7693 2 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    Love the boulder opal!

  • @grandparocky
    @grandparocky 2 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    Love the opal lightening!

  • @sunnyscott4876
    @sunnyscott4876 10 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

    Wow..I'm just so glad that this popped in my feed.
    You're a very kind man, and I love how sweet you were to your dog 🎉.
    I am definitely going to give this a try. Thanks for sharing your wonderful talents and creativity from Charlotte NC USA 🇺🇸.

  • @ginalanning5303
    @ginalanning5303 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    Love the Lighting Flashes! And the Chalcedony looked amazing!

  • @kazzhayells3179
    @kazzhayells3179 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    Wow the last one is stunning colours 🌈

  • @rogerhargreaves2272
    @rogerhargreaves2272 ปีที่แล้ว

    So SaTiSfYiNg! Nice work, all done by hand. I really appreciate your method.

  • @RobynKing-Essex
    @RobynKing-Essex 9 หลายเดือนก่อน

    Those opals are amazing!

  • @chrisbgifford7387
    @chrisbgifford7387 2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    The last stone was a treat, so pretty.

  • @lakesuperiorrocks3954
    @lakesuperiorrocks3954 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    I love learning new little techniques! That was wild! The last piece is absolutely incredible, what a treasure! Awesome vid as always!

  • @19mychaellee71
    @19mychaellee71 2 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    Thank you, Jesse. Hope you feel better soon. What a trooper.

  • @oldandtired1434
    @oldandtired1434 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    The boulder opal is beautiful, colourful lightning bolts great description.

  • @jimlancaster6120
    @jimlancaster6120 2 ปีที่แล้ว +3

    I have and love boulder opals. Thankyou for the show.

    • @Rookie_Rockounding
      @Rookie_Rockounding  2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      Oh yeah Jim, they’re so pretty hey! Have a great week ahead mate!

  • @TiffYG2133
    @TiffYG2133 ปีที่แล้ว

    I love opals, all kinds they're all beautiful and mesmerizing

  • @trishalynn4380
    @trishalynn4380 ปีที่แล้ว

    Wow! I feel blessed finding this video. Thank you for this. I was using the sandpaper method and became discouraged because it was taking so long to see results and a lot of sandpaper. After seeing that beautiful opal I can't wait to try this.

  • @samuelhansbrow9834
    @samuelhansbrow9834 2 ปีที่แล้ว +4

    Looking great as always! Thanks for the effort you put into this so we can all enjoy it with you. Muchness of all the love !

    • @Rookie_Rockounding
      @Rookie_Rockounding  2 ปีที่แล้ว

      Aye muchness of the love right back at y’a mate!

  • @aydamercado6798
    @aydamercado6798 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    Excellent!!! I don’t have any machines for this, so I’m happy to see this video!!! Your rocks are beautiful!

  • @demothesis02
    @demothesis02 2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Holy crap dude. What an awesome video. I had never seen this method before. Learn something new everyday. That last piece of opal. Amaaaaaazing. Got Rasta colors at one end, blues and purples coming off of that. So much amazingness in one little piece. Thanks for sharing brother!

  • @highenergyog
    @highenergyog 2 ปีที่แล้ว +6

    That was an absolute blast watching the process Jesse, the piece at the end is the most beautiful little piece I think I've ever had the privilege to see . Thanks 👍for taking us along for the ride .

    • @Rookie_Rockounding
      @Rookie_Rockounding  2 ปีที่แล้ว +3

      Oh Lloyd you know I’m always grateful for you coming along mate. The piece at the end is my best Boulder Opal yet. Thank you again my brother!

  • @chrislamond3854
    @chrislamond3854 2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    man you've shared some awesome backyard hacks!!! thanks heaps

  • @skyesthelimit7455
    @skyesthelimit7455 2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    I have to say... I am a newbie. I fell in love with rocks very young. But with the very rough childhood, if you'd even call it that, I lost it over the years. I finally came back to my love recently after seeing a finished boulder opal. All my good memories I had suppressed as a child came rushing back. So here I am. But anyways, my back story doesn't matter lol. I have to say I just watched a few of your videos of rock hunting and your reactions, and how you thank nature for finding great pieces is just amazing 👏. You seem so peaceful while you search and it's so calming. So I wanted to say thank you! 😊

  • @MamlamboFossils
    @MamlamboFossils 2 ปีที่แล้ว +3

    I was just looking at ways to polish some of my rocks! This looks like a great way to do it. I was thinking of a vibra lap, I'm hoping a secondhand one comes up soon. Great video!!

  • @CityRockhounding
    @CityRockhounding 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    Wow, I didn't know you could polish this way, so awesome. I have glass and grit, I'm going to have to find one worth it first! Thanks for the times, tips along the way. They turned out amazing with this process!

  • @susanbrookman2133
    @susanbrookman2133 2 ปีที่แล้ว +6

    Boulder opals are my all-time favorite. I have some, they can be quite spendy here in the USA. But well worth it. Going to try this method.✌&❤

    • @Rookie_Rockounding
      @Rookie_Rockounding  2 ปีที่แล้ว

      Oh awesome! I reckon you’ll love trying this method. Some music in the headphones helps too 😁😉✨

  • @RockhoundingLife
    @RockhoundingLife 2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    That was super cool! I've seen people do that with sand paper but not glass and grit. That Boulder opal at the end was mind blowing dude!!! Holy cow!! Amazing vid as always my friend. Stay safe!

  • @BreakOutOfTheAlgorithm
    @BreakOutOfTheAlgorithm 2 ปีที่แล้ว +4

    Nothing better than waking up on a Friday morning with a Rookie Rockhound video. Jesse you are by far the most humble and kind gentleman on TH-cam. I've never heard of polishing rocks by hand and I can't wait to do this with my nephews. Thank you so much for posting each week and putting a smile on my face. 🙏😁☮️💙💪🔥💎

    • @Rookie_Rockounding
      @Rookie_Rockounding  2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      Oh man Mike you are honestly the kindest in your comments. I know you’re a good man, so thank you so much, as it’s even more of a compliment coming from you. I reckon your nephews will love this! All the best mate and again, thank you for spreading kindness everytime!!!!

  • @brianholcomb940
    @brianholcomb940 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    Awesome video, great job and thanks for sharing!

  • @vissualss
    @vissualss ปีที่แล้ว

    Thank you for this video!! So good! Thank you Ragnar Rockbrok!

  • @deegingerkid
    @deegingerkid 2 ปีที่แล้ว +5

    It's an interesting technique! Thanks for sharing your experience. That third piece of boulder opal...it had the full spectrum of color! Awesome to see your smiling face! This was a needed cheer-up at the end of a very long week. ❤❤

    • @Rookie_Rockounding
      @Rookie_Rockounding  2 ปีที่แล้ว +2

      Ohhhhh I’m so glad you enjoyed it Dee! Always love sharing with you. Genuinely a pleasure my friend!

  • @juliemckenna514
    @juliemckenna514 2 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    Great video, those opals area Wow Beautiful! ❤️

  • @lorrets9775
    @lorrets9775 2 ปีที่แล้ว +4

    The last one was superb. If only lightning came in rainbow colours

    • @Rookie_Rockounding
      @Rookie_Rockounding  2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      Oh my gosh could you imagine! It would be the best!!!!

  • @20greeneyes20
    @20greeneyes20 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    Great news ! I can't wait to try. Thanks, I'm surprised to know it's possible !

  • @NanaAmySpectreSeeker1111
    @NanaAmySpectreSeeker1111 8 หลายเดือนก่อน

    Love the boulder opals!
    I'm south of Boston, Ma. We have carnelian and various quartz on our beaches, you inspire me to look more closely! ❤

  • @sfbfriend
    @sfbfriend ปีที่แล้ว

    Enjoyed this, you seem like you're such a calm soul to know. You are the only person I have seen recommend using a figure 8 during lapping! I have told countless people to do this. During my working years we used the figure 8 for lapping face seals in pumps, it the only way to get an even profile when doing this by hand. I would like to add one more step though to the figure 8, rotate your piece 1/4 turn every so often during the figure 8. Thanks for a great video..Cheers, peace and prayers....

  • @paultherockhound7277
    @paultherockhound7277 2 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    That was AWESOME mate good material to start with nice job

  • @donaldwarriner1640
    @donaldwarriner1640 ปีที่แล้ว

    The quality of hand polishing allows more depth since the lustre is less brilliant. My favorites. Thanks for the demo and test.

  • @Brian_the_Rockhound
    @Brian_the_Rockhound 8 หลายเดือนก่อน

    I usually use polishing blocks but I definitely want to try this now. This is a great idea. Awesome video bro.

  • @meteoriter1647
    @meteoriter1647 2 หลายเดือนก่อน +2

    Rookie Rockhounding; soft-spoken & intelligent as always, thank you so much for this video, you demonstrated objectively telling us the time it took for each stage and so very informative giving the watcher what to expect if they try it themselves, subjective videos only leave the person worried that the process would take days if not months, so they do not attempt the process themselves.

    • @Rookie_Rockounding
      @Rookie_Rockounding  2 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

      Aw thank you so much for your kind words mate 😊

  • @Mysticmoonbaby42
    @Mysticmoonbaby42 5 หลายเดือนก่อน

    That was so amazing brilliant!

  • @ieatcaribou7852
    @ieatcaribou7852 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    You did a fantastic job.

  • @darrinwilliams5715
    @darrinwilliams5715 2 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    Love the opals 😍hand polishing not so much😩 I don’t have the patience to hand polish 😎

    • @Rookie_Rockounding
      @Rookie_Rockounding  2 ปีที่แล้ว

      Hahaha! I totally understand mate! It takes some time 😬🤣

  • @niccolealdrich4890
    @niccolealdrich4890 7 หลายเดือนก่อน

    I would love to get some rocks like the last one! My favorite of all.

  • @roxannaweaver2155
    @roxannaweaver2155 2 ปีที่แล้ว +7

    This is cool! I found a waterline agate Monday 7/5/21 just looking at the rock bed alongside a sidewalk. I have looked for rocks in that area every time I have been up there and never saw it before. I almost walked by it again but the morning sun caught it just right and it caught my attention so I picked it up. It's a good size one too. Now I can use this method to try my hand at polishing it up! I like the lightening opal a lot. It has lots of sparklies and I LOVE sparklies! Thank you, Mr. Rookie.

    • @Rookie_Rockounding
      @Rookie_Rockounding  2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      Oh no way Roxanna! That is awesome! I love those kinds of finds, it’s like the rocks sometimes choose us to find them at just the right time 😉✨ much love from down under!

    • @chasself4709
      @chasself4709 2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      Rock beds are my favorite place to find stones! While I'm waiting outside my daughter's school at pick-up, I end up taking at least 1 back home with me. I used to go early on purpose somi could actually look and find several but I feel like the other parents probably think I'm crazy loading my hoodie down with rocks until it sags in the front and they're click-clacking around with each step lol
      This video is definitely giving me some inspiration, I had no idea you could do it by hand and thought I'd need a Dremel at the very least. I live on the Kentucky/Indiana border and find some awesome stuff in rock beds going unnoticed by everyone else!. Small fossils, especially crinoid and horn coral, a few broken and intact geodes, chalcedony and rhyolite, tons of chert and quartz
      Lived outside Denver 2yrs ago and they definitely had better rocks, imho. My house had a massive amount of decorative rock. I found such variety of beautiful rocks and fossils there which spurred my obsession and lead me to this channel. I found it easy to relate to you because you admit you're not an expert and are still learning. Your eagerness to gain and share knowledge with other newbies is amazing. I can feel your excitement when you find a good rock or finally see inside after cutting, it's so wholesome and genuine. Thank you so much for the inspiration, information, and helping me feel a little less like the weird mom with a pocket full of rocks and more like part of a community of awesome, like-minded folks. 🤗🌋🏞️🕵️💎b
      p.s. f you're interested in KY geodes, I'd be happy to send a few your way. Visiting the mammoth cave area soon, locals hunt and make a little money selling them and love supporting that and picking up some nice geodes to break open with the kids. It'd be cool to see you crack/cut into one and see what's inside!

  • @tinacloutier7654
    @tinacloutier7654 2 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    Beautiful bolder Opal ,my brith stone .

  • @jencapaldi420
    @jencapaldi420 ปีที่แล้ว

    Hey, thanks for showing this. I've been using sandpaper to cut & polish opal. But I'm always interested in finding other methods. Nice job!

  • @GREEKEXPLORERS
    @GREEKEXPLORERS 2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Awesome job my friend!!
    Nice video!!

  • @darkcrystalmagik3369
    @darkcrystalmagik3369 2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Never heard of this b4! Neat trick, I know I will be doing this in the future with rocks I just want a face on. Thanks Rookie!

  • @aurorasalinas1215
    @aurorasalinas1215 2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Man dude that was amazing

  • @donnalantz7981
    @donnalantz7981 2 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    That is way cool. I do have a flat lap now but still think thats cool. Thanks for teaching me something new. That bolder opal is amazing. I would sit and stare at that for hours. Thanks for sharing.

    • @Rookie_Rockounding
      @Rookie_Rockounding  2 ปีที่แล้ว +2

      Oh yeah absolutely stick with the flat lap haha! This was more a back to basics for anyone without tools. I soooooo want a flat lap! I want every machine ever hahaha😝🤪 take care Donna!

    • @donnalantz7981
      @donnalantz7981 2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      I got mine from hi tech diamond used a code to get a discount though Agate Dad. Not a bad price either. They have great tools. I want the rock saw they sell as well. That will be my next purchase. Gotta save up for it.

  • @larrycollette2986
    @larrycollette2986 2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    glad your back

    • @Rookie_Rockounding
      @Rookie_Rockounding  2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      Oh no Larry, I haven’t gone anywhere, my videos may not have been notifying you. Sorry mate. 👍

    • @larrycollette2986
      @larrycollette2986 2 ปีที่แล้ว

      @@Rookie_Rockounding thanks for the update i will look.

  • @zioncardman18
    @zioncardman18 2 ปีที่แล้ว +3

    That boulder opal is fantastic! This is how I did all my polishing in the beginning! All my stuff is hard enough that I cut it to shape, polish to 600 on my wheels then do a finish polish in the tumbler. For some reason anything over 600 grit on my machine just leaves a weird satin star pattern in the polish.

  • @themandimayhem
    @themandimayhem 12 วันที่ผ่านมา +1

    You and your dog are so cute! We love your rock videos!

  • @larrybates4925
    @larrybates4925 6 หลายเดือนก่อน

    Thanks for posting this! I heard that you would be able to polish by hand using sandpaper I tried it and it was a disaster now that I have seen your video I will get a piece of glass and try it again. You made it look so easy

  • @wilbondcajunrockhound5758
    @wilbondcajunrockhound5758 2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    wow thats pretty good for a hand polish , the opal is sweet

  • @bobbiejean4246
    @bobbiejean4246 ปีที่แล้ว

    I have a couple of really nice rocks that won't fit in the tumbler, This is Great news!!! Thank you!

  • @V27RV
    @V27RV ปีที่แล้ว

    Opal is truly the gem of of all gems

  • @tracygilman2662
    @tracygilman2662 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    I loved this video. It was worth the watch to see those beautiful lightening bolts. ❤Stone Lovers

    • @Rookie_Rockounding
      @Rookie_Rockounding  ปีที่แล้ว +1

      Stone Lovers Unite! 👊
      If you want an easier way, check out the power tool polishing videos. It’s easier for the harder rocks but both methods seriously are relaxing to do. Keep practicing and I swear, every rock you polish, be proud of! (Even the ones you don’t, they might have turned to sand if you hadn’t found a love for them 😊)

  • @patrickbeaton6697
    @patrickbeaton6697 2 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    enjoyed the vid Jess, my Mum an l are both suckers for boulder opal. lots a love, all the best from Canada 👊🍻

  • @amjathkhanraheem7605
    @amjathkhanraheem7605 3 หลายเดือนก่อน

    This is the video I was looking for

  • @judieahmed98
    @judieahmed98 ปีที่แล้ว

    Thank you! Good information

  • @chrissiejundt9867
    @chrissiejundt9867 2 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    Thank you so much for this video it was wonderful.

  • @bobs-rocks
    @bobs-rocks 2 ปีที่แล้ว +3

    Love the look of the boulder opal, cerium oxide will polish better than the tin oxide I have found.

    • @Rookie_Rockounding
      @Rookie_Rockounding  2 ปีที่แล้ว

      Thanks mate, yeah a few people have mentioned this so I’m going to try it out. Thank you for your help my friend!

    • @symonrocks9847
      @symonrocks9847 2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      The finish of some minerals is really important if you want all of that natural beauty on show.
      But it's often the budget that dictated the finish, tin oxide is very soft so won't give that deep shine, aluminium oxide is much better than tin oxide, priced roughly similar and gives a deeper shine, Cerium oxide is by far the best but also the most expensive, however the larger quantity you purchase the cheaper it is, never buy the small packs.
      The good thing about Cerium oxide is it never degrades, it can be used over and over again, so really it is the best value for money despite it's high cost.

  • @RagnarRocks
    @RagnarRocks 2 ปีที่แล้ว +5

    I'm going to have to give that a try, thanks for sharing! I wonder how much more shine cerium oxide will give it?

    • @symonrocks9847
      @symonrocks9847 2 ปีที่แล้ว +2

      You will get a slightly better shine with cerium oxide but it will be a deeper shine, that's the difference between good and amazing.

    • @Rookie_Rockounding
      @Rookie_Rockounding  2 ปีที่แล้ว +2

      Ah yes! So funny story, I finished filming this video last weekend and went to play chess with the French-Man (Benny) and he said “man cerium would work better… I have some if you’d like to try it…” haha! Next time I recon I’m gonna need to try that for a deeper polish. Much love mates!

    • @symonrocks9847
      @symonrocks9847 2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      @@Rookie_Rockounding
      Cerium is very expensive, that's why I keep repeating the fact that it can be used forever and never degrades, leather and felt pads once loaded and kept uncontaminated can be reused to infinity and beyond, the felt will take more before it's loaded, you must have plenty in the felt or you are just wearing away the felt.
      Leather takes less and produces a really good shine but I.m.o. Felt gives a better finish.
      Both clean felt and leather are good for buffing up finished rocks after dusting.
      There is a labour saving device, all you need is a fine dusting mop and some dog treats, fix the mop onto the muts tail and feed it treats, sorted, automatic polisher.

  • @luisgomez385
    @luisgomez385 2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    I used to do that. It's fun especially when doing it with amber it gives it a good polish.

  • @sarejen6868
    @sarejen6868 2 ปีที่แล้ว +5

    Oh this is a great video on how to do stones by hand! I'd never have thought of it 🙄 It would be a good technique to try on smaller stones that could be damaged or to work on a specific area you want to polish. Thank you for sharing and showing your results on those beautiful stones!

    • @Rookie_Rockounding
      @Rookie_Rockounding  2 ปีที่แล้ว

      Thank you SareJen! I hope you’re keeping well and having a great week. 😁

  • @CarlDi3trich
    @CarlDi3trich 2 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    Every method I learn helps so thanks for the video. :)

  • @PippyPan
    @PippyPan 9 หลายเดือนก่อน

    Thanks for sharing from Idaho USA (the gem state!)

  • @Hayhayitsmaay
    @Hayhayitsmaay 9 หลายเดือนก่อน

    Thanks for this. I live in west tx in the US and have so many beautiful agates and finally got the courage to try my vibratory tumbler hand me down yesterday
    ...and it doesn't work 😢 this was so neat to watch you scienceing over there with your rock children 😅thank you! Gonna try one now.

  • @WorldofRockhounds
    @WorldofRockhounds 2 ปีที่แล้ว +3

    I should try this!
    I learned something new today!
    Thank you!
    Also that last opal was 🔥🔥🔥⚡⚡

  • @cocodrillo2627
    @cocodrillo2627 2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Love your channel Brotha!

  • @a.bearsfan4lyf89
    @a.bearsfan4lyf89 2 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    Wow! Talk about a flashback! When I was a kid I hung out at a rock shop 4 blocks from home. That's where I learned about using glass & grit. For the final finish we used heavy denim instead of leather. I'll have to try that.
    Another great video, Thanks for sharing...
    And as always...
    Good Luck, Have Fun, and Keep on Houndin'...
    Steve.

    • @Rookie_Rockounding
      @Rookie_Rockounding  2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      Ohhhhhh! That’s awesome mate! Yeah I saw it and I immediately thought, “okay I totally have to show people this!!!!!” Haha!
      Hope you’re having a rad week Steve and sorry for the late replies lately 🤦‍♂️ hope you’re keeping well mate!

  • @karensparozvich6625
    @karensparozvich6625 2 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    Some beautiful colours in those opals. Think I may have to buy a starter kit. Cheers Jesse.🍻

  • @Debbie4729
    @Debbie4729 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    I like you.Thank you for being mellow and cool!

  • @thecrystalhunters
    @thecrystalhunters 11 หลายเดือนก่อน

    Awesome video 🔥🙌

  • @susanhenke8441
    @susanhenke8441 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    You did good job 👍

  • @lizzymoore54
    @lizzymoore54 2 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    Beauties mate, one and all! 🥰

  • @QuestForDetails
    @QuestForDetails 2 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    nice trick!! I appreciate this for sure ,literally going out to the shop after this to try, makes sense... very good low tech. thank you !!

    • @Rookie_Rockounding
      @Rookie_Rockounding  2 ปีที่แล้ว

      Ayyyyyyyye! Thank you Nate! Man it’s pretty sweet how quick it can take. Machines work better but it’s still a good way to zen out also. Hope you’re keeping well my brother!

  • @Ontario_Rockhound
    @Ontario_Rockhound 2 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    Very cool, a very interesting video.

  • @406findings
    @406findings 2 ปีที่แล้ว +4

    I have never seen such a method for polishing but great job sir and keep up the content you do wonderful work on the vids🍻

    • @Rookie_Rockounding
      @Rookie_Rockounding  2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      G’day man! Sorry for the late replies lately. I’ve been all over the place busy and stuff. Thanks heaps for the kind words dude. Really appreciate it brother. 🍻🍻🍻🍻

  • @damonmoore8741
    @damonmoore8741 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    Wonderful job 🤜🏾🤛🏾💯💪🏾respect ✨✨✨

  • @lesliesnowdon8490
    @lesliesnowdon8490 2 ปีที่แล้ว +3

    Love the opals, have been thinking about buying a beginner package from Black Opal Direct and this looks like the perfect way of trying my hand at polishing them. Thanks 😊

    • @Rookie_Rockounding
      @Rookie_Rockounding  2 ปีที่แล้ว

      Oh yeah! Justin from BOD is a legend and I reckon this way could be really cool. Let me know how it goes if you do 👍👍👍

    • @Rookie_Rockounding
      @Rookie_Rockounding  2 ปีที่แล้ว +2

      Wait! Leslie!!!!!!!! I just realised your name! Okay so I have been meaning to email you! I got the package back safe and sound and I’ll be sending it this week. I’ll email you and make sure I’ve got the address right this time and also send you a tracking order so you can follow its progress. So sorry for the mix up and I know you’ll be able to do this method of polishing because your patience is impeccable given how long you’ve had to wait! I will talk very soon! I’ve just been terrible at time management. Or even just managing my self… 🤦‍♂️🤦‍♂️🤦‍♂️

    • @lesliesnowdon8490
      @lesliesnowdon8490 2 ปีที่แล้ว

      @@Rookie_Rockounding It's all good, it just means I have something to look forward to. I hurt my knee about 4.5 yrs ago (my good knee of course) and have learned how to be even more patient. I don't let little or even medium things get to me, life can change in a second so be happy while you are here 🙂😉🥰

  • @milesnn
    @milesnn 2 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    Awesome job my friend lol I like your glasses for a close look just like mine first time you did awesome wow real eye catchers on colours all by hand wow ( meminer) uses ivory bar soap at the very end and it keeps the wet look to the polished rocks blew me away how it works I don’t know if I could sit long enough for that lol awesome job my friend thank you

    • @Rookie_Rockounding
      @Rookie_Rockounding  2 ปีที่แล้ว

      Haha yeah I reckon the key ingredient is patience. 🤣
      And I love mr meMiner!

  • @colinmerriman5890
    @colinmerriman5890 2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Nice hand polishing mate, turned out really nice. If you get a chance to polish more boulder on a polishing wheel, use 50000/100000 diamond spray on leather, it polishes the ironstone and opal amazing.