Create a granite and resin cabochon

  • This topic has 3 replies, 1 voice, and was last updated 6 years ago by Katherine Swift.
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    • #997
      Filipe
      Guest

        Hello Katherine,

      Thank you for you quick reply, but I was wondering if you could provide a few specific details.
      For example:
      – Can you suggest a brand for the resin (something highly durable).
      – Can I create a mold out of plasticine? (Not trying to be cheap, just wondering if it is an option)
      – Polishing technics.
      I cannot stress enough that this will be the first time that I work with this material and because of its importance Im trying to do it the best I can.
      Thanks in advance.
      Filipe
    • #995
      Katherine Swift
      Guest

      This question comes through Facebook by Filipe:

      I would like some advice on a small project that Im doing, but Im a bit stuck. I hate to ask so much and be an imposition on your time and knowledge.
      Im designing and creating an engagement ring in pink gold with incrusted granite, the problem is that due to the size of my fiances hand the ring in considerably small and so has to be the granite (the reason to use this rock is sentimental and has a meaning).
      Granite is very hard to work in such dimensions, so I tough maybe I could create a mold of what I need and mix granite dust with resin to produce faux granite. I never worked with resin before and I think I only need a small amount in order to produce such small pieces.
      Could you possibly guide me on how to do this? What resin to use, how to create a mold and polish it?

    • #996
      Katherine Swift
      Guest

      Congratulations Filipe!  What a neat idea for an engagement ring.

      To do this project, you’re going to need:

      1.  Resin
      2.  Mold of the desired shape
      3.  Granite
      4.  Assorted other mixing and mold materials

      I would say almost any clear resin would work, assuming your final stone is small.  A premade plastic mold would be easiest, but you may find a stone or shape that you like.  You could then make a silicone mold from this model.  You would pour your mixed resin into this mold.

      As for the granite, I would certainly get some to experiment with first.  My thought is that you will need to mix equal parts mixed resin with equal parts of granite.  Make sure your granite powder is absolutely dry before including the resin, otherwise the resin may not cure properly.

      We have lots of tutorials on our blog that cover the details I left out here (measuring, mixing, mold release, etc.)  You can find them here: https://resinobsession.com/tag/beginner/

    • #998
      Katherine Swift
      Guest

      Hi Filipe,

      I dont know what the consistency of plasticine is, but since you want a gemstone of sorts and want a high polish, I would make this one from polyester resin.  Polyester castings can be polished with a wheel and the appropriate compound to get a super glossy finish.

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