From rough to wrapped

Some examples of the lapidary process.

Cabochon process

Each cabochon begins as rough stone that is carefully examined to reveal its best color, pattern, and natural features. The stone is cut, shaped, and gradually refined on diamond grinding wheels before being sanded through progressively finer grits and polished to a brilliant finish.

Cut the cut into slabs

Plan the shape

Trim off excess

Polish with multple grits

Specimens

Each cabochon begins as rough stone that is carefully examined to reveal its best color, pattern, and natural features. The stone is cut, shaped, and gradually refined on diamond grinding wheels before being sanded through progressively finer grits and polished to a brilliant finish.

Rough purple agate

High dome finish

Rough Agate half

Low dome finish