Tutor: Keith Billing
Cabochons are a domed and polished precious stone. Commonly the material is opaque enabling the surface to reflect light and shine. Stones that are commonly used in cabbing are Opals, Jade, Malachite, turquoise, jasper, and obsidian.
The course covers the complete cycle of creating a cabochon, with theory, demonstrations and hands on activities with guidance as required provided. Jasper and Obsidian slabs are provided by the club for use in the course, sometimes stones such as Mookaite may be provided. During the course you will learn how to:
- Use the grinding and polishing equipment
- Outline the Cabochon shape on a slab of rock then the tutor will cut with trimsaw close to the outline
- Grind down to the outline, then grind the side/top edges to form a dome
- Sanding steps through to the finest sanding belt to smooth the dome
- Polish the surface of the dome to complete the cabochon
This board shows and example of the cabochon process. (take photo at the club. Below are some examples of finished cabochons by members on the course.
Pre requisites / required for attendance
- Must be over 16 years of age
- Rocks, aprons and safety equipment (ear muffs and safety glasses) are provided or you can bring your own
- Long hair must be tied up or in hair net
- Closed footwear with good grip must be worn
Additional Material Cost
None
Course Frequency and Times
Courses are offered every second month with a class size of 4 participants.
The course classes run from 7.30 pm – 9.30 pm once a week over 5 week period.
Course Commencement Dates
Refer to the Calander for course starting dates.