Polished stones are also known as tumbled stones and come in all shapes, sizes and types. These stones can be common or semi-precious stones. They can be purchased online or at a local rock shop. If you like, you can even purchase your own tumbler and learn to polish your own stones. Naturally polished stones are found on beaches and along creeks and riverbeds.

Popular Polished Stones Polished StonesYou may be familiar with some of the more prevalently used stones such as amethyst, clear, rose and smokey quartz, obsidian, aquamarine, tiger's eye, citrine, sodalite, lapis lazuli, and a long list of agates. One recent addition to the popular stones is called an ametrine (amethyst and citrine).

Geology

Are polished stones really just rock? While it is accurate to say that granite and feldspar are rock, we need to remember that crystals are also often referred to as stone. Crystals fall into the semi-precious gemstone category. While some are mined and made into faceted and fine jewelry, the bits of rock that are left are either sold in bulk, raw and uncut; or tumbled, polished and sold to rock shops for retail sales.

Shaping Stones

People called lapidarists have the job of cutting, shaping and polishing stones.There are several ways that a lapidarist can cut stone. One is called cobbing, when the lapidarist uses a small hammer to lightly hit the larger stone to fracture the pieces. Sawing with a thin circular saw, grinding on a wheel, or sanding are other methods of cutting stone.

Tumbling

Once you've got the approximate size of stone(s) you want, put them in a tumbler with either water or an abrasive substance to polish them. This process can take days, even weeks. When using abrasive materials to polish the stones, start with a coarser grade, then move to a finer grade material to finish with the smooth and polished finish.

Considerations

When looking for polished stones to buy, look closely at the finished product. Is it lacquered instead of naturally polished? If so, that beautiful shine will wear off. Do extensive research on the methods and tools you will need, if you decide to take lapidary up as a hobby. It isn't always necessary to buy each piece of equipment. Where and how will you find stones to tumble and polish? Put on a good pair of hiking boots and head for the nearest riverbed, mountain path or sand dunes. It doesn't cost a thing, and it's good for you too. Make sure you have permission to take rocks from where you find them. Some state and national parks have rules.