Learn from an expert how to cut an opal the old-fashioned way.
This is the first video to watch in the series if you are interested in cutting and polishing opal.
Justin is a second generation opal cutter learning from his father Jorgen who was a master cutter and carver.
Justin started cutting as a young boy where his father from years of experience started to teach him the ‘tricks of the trade’. Justin has become a master cutter himself with over 30 years experience.
In this easy to follow video ‘how to cut an opal’ Justin will discuss the art of fashioning an opal the old-fashioned way using sandpaper and felt wheels with Cerium Oxide.
In this video Justin has a ‘nobby’ which he has in the ‘grub’ stage ready for polishing.
He will discuss in a concise and informative way:-
- How to mount your stone onto a dop stick.
- The importance of good quality diamond cutting wheels.
- The difference in ‘grit’ for sandpaper and there uses.
- Sanding on a flat lap wheel with sandpaper.
- The importance on washing the opal to prevent contamination
- Polishing with a felt wheel with pumice using cerium oxide
- The art of polishing and keeping a dome on a cabochon
In ten minutes you will learn more about how to cut an opal than a library full of books!
After watching this video you will be wanting to purchase some rough and begin polishing the old-fashioned way.
Available from our website is the ‘Beginner opal cutter package’.
The package includes:400cts of Lightning Ridge Rough Opal, body tone & brightness scale to grade your opal, & 100 grams of the finest grade Cerium Oxide.
