Hand Lapidary Craft

This, the first book to explain how to cut and polish stones entirely by hand, will enable amateurs to work in this extremely rewarding field without the need for expensive equipment or technological skills. Recent developments in synthetic polishes have rendered the mystique of the lapidary obsolescent, and here the author brings this craft even further within the scope of the amateur by describing how to improvise equipment from household materials, whether working on found pebbles or good quality gemstones

With step-by-step instructions, this practical handbook shows how to master the basic processes of dopping, polishing, flat lapping, faceting, carving and engraving, and takes the reader through every stage of working, from polishing a simple cabochon to cutting a standard round brilliant. All the improvised equipment included in the book has been tested, and will ensure excellent results, while the innovative methods of working devised by the author will be of special interest to the more experienced craftsman.

Hand work can enable groups of lapidaries to take full advantage of a limited number of machines, and thus the methods in this book will be of particular benefit to clubs and societies. Hand techniques can also allow the amateur at home and the student in the classroom without access to machinery to acquire a considerable degree of skill in lapidary work and use their hands to produce beautiful gemstones of real value.

Hand Lapidary Craft is a hardback edition with a worn dust jacket, while the book itself remains in good, solid condition. A practical and informative reference, it offers valuable instruction and insight into traditional lapidary techniques.

• Condition: Used, good condition (dust jacket worn)

• Format: Hardback

• Measurements: 19 × 25.5 × 1.5 cm