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The Best Cutting Machine for Gemstones: Everything You Need to Know
If you love gems, jewelry making or lapidary hobby, then you know that having a reliable and efficient cutting machine is crucial. Gemstone cutting machines are used in shaping rough rocks into polished gems which can be used to create exquisite jewelry pieces, and choosing the right cutting machine is one of the most important decisions you will make in your lapidary crafting journey.
But with so many cutting machines available on the market today, what is the best cutting machine for gemstones? In this article, we will take a closer look at some of the top-rated gemstone cutting machines, their features and benefits to help you make an informed decision.
Factors to Consider
Before we get into the details of the best cutting machines for gemstones, there are a few factors that you should consider in your decision-making process:
Budget: Gemstone cutting machines range from a few hundred dollars up to thousands of dollars. Determine a budget that works for you before starting your search.
Type of Stone: Some cutting machines work better on specific types of stones such as agates, quartz or jaspers. So, ensure that the machine you choose is compatible with the stones you have in mind.
Cutting Ability: The machine should be able to perform the desired cuts, such as facet or cabochon cutting.
Size and Weight: Depending on where you plan to set up your machine, you should consider its size and weight. Some machines are portable while others require a permanent workshop setup.
Top-Rated Cutting Machines for Gemstones
Here are some of the top-rated gemstone cutting machines that lapidary experts and hobbyists alike swear by:
| Machine | Features | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Facetron Precision Gemstone Machine | Digital Angle Display, Water Tank, Dial Indicator, One-button Operations | $3,500 – $4,000 |
| Hi-Tech Diamond 6″ Lapidary Trim Saw | Powerful motor, Durable blade, Adjustable coolant flow valve | $510.00 |
| CabKing Cabbing Machine | Multiple diamond wheels, Powerful motor, Water reservoir with easy drainage system, Eight-inch saw blade, Polishing pad kit | $2,499.00 |
Facetron Precision Gemstone Machine
If you’re in search of a high-quality gem cutting machine that allows for precise cuts, then Facetron Precision Gemstone Machine is the perfect choice for you. The Facetron machine has a digital angle display that enables you to control and view the angle of the cut with ease. It also features a water tank that supplies water to the cutting wheel during use, reducing friction and ensuring efficient cutting of your gemstones.
The machine has a dial indicator that accurately measures the depth of your cuts and an easy one-button operation which makes it convenient even for beginners. It is designed for precision faceting and comes with an instructional DVD to help you learn how to use it effectively. Although this machine is on the higher end of the budget, its exceptional capacity to produce accurate and quality cuts make it worth the investment for professional jewelers.
Hi-Tech Diamond 6″ Lapidary Trim Saw
The Hi-Tech Diamond 6″ Lapidary Trim Saw is a popular top-rated cutting machine that offers excellent value for money. The machine’s motor provides ample power for trimming rough stone into small chunks that are perfect for shaping on other machines. Additionally, the adjustable coolant flow valve helps keep the blade lubricated and prevents overheating, making it ideal for extended cutting sessions.
Designed for hobbyists and beginning lapidaries, this cutting machine has a durable blade, is easy to operate, and produces minimal noise when in use. With a price tag of $510.00, this machine is affordable compared to the Facetron machine but still delivers exceptional results.
CabKing Cabbing Machine
The CabKing Cabbing Machine, also known as the CabKing 8″, is a versatile grinding and polishing machine. This device is perfect for shaping and polishing cabochons (rounded or dome-shaped stones) created on other machines, then mounting them onto a piece of jewelry. The machine’s motor delivers ample power to handle tough grinding jobs while the water reservoir with an easy drainage system keeps the work area clean.
The CabKing machine comes with multiple diamond wheels in various grits, allowing you to perform several tasks from rough cuts to fine polishing. The machine also features a powerful 1/4 HP motor that delivers enough torque for heavy-duty grinding and polishing tasks.
Conclusion
Choosing the best cutting machine for gemstones should be based on your lapidary needs, budget, size and weight capacity, and the types of stones you intend to cut. Whatever your goals are, always remember to invest in a machine of high quality to ensure excellent results that will keep you crafting beautiful gems and jewelry pieces for years to come.
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