Tumbled Gemstone Pendants

If you are looking for a piece of jewelry with a difference, then how about considering a tumbled gemstone pendant?

Tumbled gemstones make lovely items of jewelry. Unlike pieces of gemstones that have been cut into regular shapes, tumbled gemstones have a very organic shape.

What are Tumbled Gemstones?

'Tumbling' is a method used to polish rough pieces of gemstone and other semi precious stones. The process is very similar to the way that the sea and sand grinds and smooths pebbles. Pieces of stone are put into the barrel of a tumbling machine along with different grades of grit and this is left to tumble away for a period of weeks. The grit grinds down the stone, gently removing the harsh edges and creating a smooth surface. As the weeks go by, the grit is replaced with a finer and finer version, until the final grade grit is so fine that it polishes the surface of the stone. When the process is finished the stone will still reflect its original shape, but with a smooth and rounded surface.

When people tumble polish stones, they can only work with a limited amount each time and the stones must have similar properties. This means that the process of creating tumbled gemstones for use in jewelry is actually quite slow and there is limited control over the end results. The lack of control also means that no two stones are ever quite alike and this enhances the beauty of this type of gemstone. Tumbled gemstones are ideal for creating unique gemstone necklaces and pendants.

Types of Tumbled Gemstone Pendants

There are many different types of tumbled gemstones that can be used for pendants. Large, dramatic stones make a bold statement while smaller, more delicate tumbled gemstone pendants look great when teamed with other jewelry. Virtually any stone can be tumble polished and this means that the range and choice is vast. Generally, high quality gemstones, such as fine sapphires and rubies, are not tumble polished, as these stones look better when they are faceted. Lower grade precious gemstones, however, can be found tumble polished and these can look stunning.

Popular stones used for tumble polishing are agates and quartzes. These stones naturally have markings and inclusions. The tumbling process emphasizes and enhances these markings and this makes for very unusual stones. Stones such as amethyst, jade and carnelian are also popular because of their rich colors.

Types of Settings

Tumbled gemstone pendants need to be held in a setting. The setting will allow the pendant to be strung onto a chain or a piece of thong. There are many different types of setting available and the jeweler will choose a setting that enhances the beauty of the stone. A very large stone, for instance, will look great when teamed with a large and bold setting. The same setting on a smaller stone may dwarf the stone and make it appear insignificant. Settings can be found in gold, silver and other metals.

Buying Tumbled Gemstone Jewelry

Many stores sell a range of tumbled gemstone jewelry and artisan jewelers often favor this type of stone. When seeking to buy a pendant made with a tumbled gemstone it is useful to look at the selection available from high street stores as well as online jewelers. Some online jewelry stores that sell tumbled polished stone jewelry include:

• Pine Baskets
• Snazzy Rocks
• Legend Weaver

Tips for Buying Tumbled Gemstone Jewelry

Buying jewelry made with tumbled gemstones can be a very rewarding experience, however there are a few tips that will help ensure that the perfect purchase is made:

• Check what type of metal the setting is made from. Plated settings, such as silver plate, make wear over time and this will expose the base metal.

• If the stone is a bright or improbable color, ask the jeweler if the stone has been dyed. This does not mean that there is anything wrong with the stone. It does mean, however, that the stone may fade.

• Ask the jeweler for any special instructions for looking after the jewelry. This can help to keep the jewelry in tip top condition and looking great for many years to come.

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