It can therefore be found in abundance around stream beds and dry washes in some geological locations. It generally forms when groundwater deposits minerals in rock cavities, in fractures, and in bedding plane separations. This is due to its hardness, density, natural smoothness, how commonly it is obtained, and how well the rock responds to the tumbling and polishing process. AgateĪgate is a microcrystalline variation of quartz and is undoubtedly the most popular option for tumbling. These rocks are the best options to achieve great results. As a result of these conditions, the most ideal tumbling rocks do not have fractures, voids, or wide pores, but are dense, smoothly textured, and have a Mohs hardness of around 7.
In addition, factors like consistency and quality also have an impact on potential outcomes. For very hard batches, the coarse grit stage is often prolonged for the best results. The entire batch of rocks going into the tumbler barrel also needs to be similar in hardness, as a large difference in hardness could result in the softer rocks being damaged.Ī batch of softer rocks can be used, but the timing of each stage will need to be shortened and should be more carefully monitored.Ī batch of rocks that are too hard will result in the opposite effect, and it will take extremely long to smooth down. Most tumbler grit is made of silicon carbide, one of the hardest artificial materials, and the selected rocks need to withstand this. Other than the overall quality of the rock, one of the most important factors when selecting rocks to tumble is its hardness. The rock tumbling process is understandably harsh on the rocks, and it’s therefore crucial that the rocks have durable physical properties to withstand the process. Low quality or granular textured rocks also have a chance of shedding fragments and scratching surrounding rocks, so these are carefully modified beforehand or avoided completely.
#Quartz tumble cracked#
Rocks that are permeable or cracked will not produce an attractive tumbled stone. High-quality rough rocks are needed in order to achieve high-quality results. There is something incredibly satisfying about witnessing such a drastic transformation, and the process by which a rough rock is transmuted into a smooth shiny stone gives many people an abundant sense of achievement.Īpart from having the joy of owning a lovely collection, this accomplishment is often the main motivation for this hobby.
What Rocks and Minerals are Good for Tumbling? If you are interested in checking out the best rock tumblers you can find them by clicking here (Amazon link).
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