LAPIDARY
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LAPIDARY
Many cabochons, faceted stones, and other lapidary items have been made or written about by our members over the years. Here are some examples; the articles may be downloaded.
“FACETIPS – A GEM CUTTER’S NOTEBOOK” BY DUNCAN MILLER.
Most of the faceting articles written by Duncan for our newsletter over the past few years have been compiled into a single 128-page document. Its main themes include guidance for beginners on how to start faceting, acquiring equipment, learning techniques and becoming proficient. There are detailed descriptions of faceting machines, laps, dopping methods and polishing tools, along with instructions for working such gemstones as quartz, garnet, tourmaline, topaz, and synthetic materials.
THE ROMANCE OF THE STONE –This ode reflects on the emotional and technical journey of gem cutting, highlighting the various feelings and challenges experienced by a gem cutter throughout the process.
LAPIDARY: SPHERES, SLABS, ETC.– This document highlights the craftsmanship of our members, in particular that of the late Father Tony Garman, who created amongst other items, cut gems, gemstone spheres and stone boxes. It explores various rock types, minerals and polished slabs suitable for lapidary, including their origins, characteristics and aesthetic appeal, as well as discussing tools and methods for examining minerals and gemstones before working them.
SOUTHERN AFRICAN LAPIDARY STONES TO WATCH OUT FOR.
This is a collection of articles from the Cape Town Gem & Mineral Club’s old Mineral Chatters, highlighting Southern African lapidary stones and their unique characteristics. It provides detailed descriptions, origins, and properties of various stones, and includes photographs of the stones and various carvings, emphasizing their beauty and versatility.
The below article discusses the art and history of lapidary, showcasing various polished mineral specimens and their characteristics. The author reflects on the evolving appreciation for lapidary specimens among mineral collectors and shares personal experiences and notes his own growing interest in lapidary art. The article focuses on form, colour, and minerals rather than technical aspects of lapidary work. Categories include slabs, eggs, lumps, stalactites, cabochons, cubes, spheres, points, pyramids, and cut gems.
POLISHED SLABS REVISITED BY PETER ROSEWARNE – This is another article by Peter which revisits the author’s earlier article on polished slabs, showcasing various specimens from his collection, ranging from common to unusual minerals and rocks. The article provides detailed descriptions, origins, and geological insights into each slab, accompanied by images. It includes information on: The Pallasite Meteorite, Tiger Iron, Blue Lace Agate, Fluorite, Eclogite/Granulite, and Packsaddle Tiger’s Eye.