Comparing Rotary and Vibratory Tumbling of Lake Superior Agates

[@MichiganRocks]

If you missed the first video where I tumbled for nine days in the vibratory tumbler, here it is: kzbin.info/www/bejne/epjCm5uZgr6cm6c

[@betsyallen4821]

Thanks, I checked the link to the previous video. I received the double barrel lot-o for my birthday and am slowly stumbling my way through. Not as much info on how to use it well as there is with rotary tumblers. Thanks for taking the time to point me in the right direction, I really appreciate it.

[@MichiganRocks]

@@betsyallen4821 Good luck!

[@sparband]

I love the before and after slideshows. I’m sure that is very time consuming to put together. Thanks for doing that.

[@MichiganRocks]

You're welcome. It takes a few hours to do the slideshow. That's why I don't do before and after shows all the time. I'm trying to get a few more started for the future.

[@dorothycooley1085]

Rob: How can you not love looking at rocks? I now find myself looking at rocks even in line at McDonald’s, their landscaping rocks. I’m hopelessly hooked on rock hounding. Thanks to your videos.

[@MichiganRocks]

You mean you didn't do that before? I thought that was normal.

[@Adulting_Autistic]

Sometimes when I see a pretty rock when I am out, I bring it home. I cannot resist. 😊

[@ronswonke8109]

I've even collected some from the McDonald's drive-thru hahaha

[@gatchrocks]

Half the rocks I tumble come from my secret rock spot in the harbor freight parking lot. It's the only place no one else is already looking.

[@hollytugiyanto5326]

Hahaha. I do that too…I’m always eyeballing the landscape rocks at my kids’ school haha

[@kmba-9197]

I love the sounds of the rocks after they have been polished they sound like marbles clacking together.

[@bobmcbob4399]

That's what I thought too. And it seems that some marbles with the internal ribbons mirror to a lesser degree what nature bakes into these banded agates. I always like looking at marbles rather than playing with them, and I get the same satisfaction with these rocks (albeit not in-hand on YT).

[@logantracey5023]

Hi mr math teacher I was a student in 8 th grade last year Logan You have a very detailed video which is really good because it gives other people that don’t know what it is and make them know what to do in the future Keep it up🤘😎

[@MichiganRocks]

Hi Logan! I see you took time out from truck videos to watch a rock video. How's your unusual school year going? Tell your sister I said hello.

[@acerone10]

You and me: "I don't know how anyone could not love looking at rocks" Husband: LOL, LOL, LOL. I liked most of them after the first process better. Only a few after the second process. But I liked all the ones with the quarts pockets. Watching from NE Ohio. 30 miles from Lake Erie.

[@MichiganRocks]

I agree that some looked better after just doing the quick vibe tumble. Others looked better after the longer rotary tumble to me.

[@wawabbit]

ha ha. I'm the same. I love looking at rocks, and Mr. Michigan Rocks is an inspiration to me in my tumbling journey!

[@wawabbit]

@@MichiganRocks I liked some of the raw ones so much, and I also liked some in the vibe-tumbler better than the last one, but I liked a lot of them in the last tumbler. I guess it is a personal choice then! p.s. Try not to worry when people complain too much or don't watch the last part of your videos. Some of us love the slideshow, and some just want to come for the lessons. You do a really nice job, in my opinion, and I've learned a lot from you.

[@maverickstclare3756]

Even my humble rocks are magical.

[@MichiganRocks]

@@wawabbit I don't mind when people don't watch the slideshow, but this one was different and I wanted people to at least see the before and after comparisons that I was doing before they decided not to watch.

[@justjane411]

Thank you so much for that slideshow. I've been using rotary tumblers but now seeing that, I think I prefer the vibratory. Those agates were all absolutely beautiful in all stages.

[@MichiganRocks]

Even if you like rotary tumbling, the vibratory tumbler will finish the rocks up after the first stage much quicker. Instead of about five weeks that I usually take for the last three stages in a rotary tumbler, I can finish them in one week in a vibratory tumbler.

[@demep488]

I’m shocked!!! The majority of the time I preferred them with just the vibration. Fantastic video! I really enjoyed this. Don’t get me wrong I appreciate the gorgeous shine you achieve. Great video! Thanks!

[@MichiganRocks]

I knew from the start that some people would like them one way and others would like them the other way. Different strokes for different folks.

[@dancrites453]

Wow... Amazing collection! The "before" and "after" slideshow was incredible. I watched all the way to the end. ;) Well done.

[@MichiganRocks]

Thanks Dan, glad you liked it!

[@rosalindhendricks6337]

At 17 minutes is a beauty. Nice colors with eyes and no visible cracks. A keeper for sure. You came up with excellent shine on all. Enjoyable video.

[@acerone10]

17:05 looks like candy corn.

[@MichiganRocks]

There weren't many without cracks in here.

[@MichiganRocks]

Mmmm... Candy corn...

[@mandyballge632]

That was so cool seeing the difference between the tumbler and vibrating. I never knew they did such a different job. I always thought they were the same thing. Thank you for sharing this knowledge.

[@MichiganRocks]

They’re not the same at all, other than they will both make rocks shiny. I’m glad I was able to show you something new.

[@sweetpeapumpkin1923]

I totally love looking at rocks. Ever since I was a little kid.

[@MichiganRocks]

Seems normal.

[@rebeccacress2951]

My sister lives in Duluth and she gave me some agates to polish. I tumbled them with 60 grit in my rotary for about 10 days and then I moved them to the lot-o-tumbler and used your steps. I really love how they turned out!

[@MichiganRocks]

Great, that would be somewhere between the two methods I used.

[@Kick_Rocks_]

Both ways are beautiful. I would be happy with either one. Or maybe a mix of both. The wonderful aspect of it is we all have a personal preference and an emotional reaction that draws us to what we find pleasing to the eye. Keep rocking!

[@MichiganRocks]

I think a mix would have been best with these rocks. It's hard to tell which ones will do better with more tumbling and which ones would look better with less.

[@Rookie_Rockounding]

Haha! 8:18 they’re toooooo shiny! Haha. Man this was really cool. I wasn’t too sure until the slide show which I preferred but I have to say the finished product after shaping and through the rotary tumbler is just beautiful. Really rad Rob! Really rad! And dude! You got shirts n hoodies!!!!!! Heck yeah! They look awesome mate!

[@MichiganRocks]

They're never too shiny! I prefer them more finished myself, but there are plenty of people who prefer them more natural looking. Did you miss my awesome infomercial video? I'm at negative two subscribers because of it, but I've sold a few shirts. I sure had fun making this one. kzbin.info/www/bejne/kJy8hYymm7F7mcU.

[@Justfollowthecrumbs]

They are beautiful, personally I liked them at the second stage just a little bit more edgy, as a painter they held my interest there but they would grace any display. You do have to be patient to get the results, for that you have my whole hearted admiration I couldn’t wait that long.

[@MichiganRocks]

It gets easier to wait the longer I do it. At first, I could hardly wait to open the barrel each week.

[@bobmcbob4399]

@@MichiganRocks For me, it seems like it's difficult to tell in advance when to quit at the second stage and when to press on to completion. Some of the colours really pop at second stage in the slideshow and the last stage although beautifully finished, seem to lose the higher contrasting colours from second stage. Nice all the same.

[@MichiganRocks]

@@bobmcbob4399 Yep knowing when to quit is the trick. I can't say I have that figured out.

[@debidevaney8398]

I love seeing these older videos when they come up🙂. All of these agates are beautiful in their own way. Some are best left untouched, some need just a little work, and the rest show off best with complete lap and tumble work. Thanks for sharing, Rob. 🥰

[@MichiganRocks]

You're welcome. Hopefully the older videos hold up fairly well. I know that I've gotten better at video and I have a better microphone, but the content should still be good.

[@staceymcmahan5016]

I really enjoy the side shows. I like learning and seeing the before after. All si beautiful. Thank you

[@MichiganRocks]

You're welcome!

[@garyletcher9703]

Kind of hard to say which I prefer. It depends on the rock. Great Video, Thank You.

[@MichiganRocks]

I agree completely.

[@judyhobday4760]

I see why you like to get the dips and such out, the rocks are now a lot easier to see the banding. I really like seeing each individual rock as you show them. Each one different and each one it's own beauty. The shadowing banding is especially pretty. wish I could come and search for ones where you go. I do find some nice agates and such where I live next to the Oregon coast, just a short walk after a winter storm can turn up some beauties. So, not complaining. Thanks for showing your finds and taking us along on your searches.

[@judyhobday4760]

and the slide show is amazing, to see the before and after.

[@MichiganRocks]

I wish I had a spot to find these too. I find a few, but not many and not big ones. It sure is fun looking, though.

[@DanteGoosekhan]

Wow, thank you so much for doing this. I just got a vibratory tumbler and there is def a huge difference in the final results. Some looked better more natural off the vibratory, while some looked better tumbled. Amazing colors and shapes in those from both techniques.

[@MichiganRocks]

It's really nice to have both. I typically rotary tumble for the first stage and then finish them in my vibratory tumbler.

[@betojdesigns]

Beautiful rocks! I love that your not sorry for the shiny reflection. You put in a lot of hard work 😓 and time on this batch and it shows. They are gorgeous at all stages because they are rocks, and we are only here because we love rocks. Enjoyed the mom statement of “You don’t want to put your eye out”. Made me smile 😊

[@MichiganRocks]

Good, I don't want any grumpy viewers here. Smiles are good.

[@progressivedigressor6036]

The big quarts at 21:00 did turn out amazing. Great rocks and i appreciate the work you put into them and your videos. Looks like the vibratory tumbler gives them a shiny natural look and the rotary gives them the polished detailed finish. Great stuff

[@MichiganRocks]

The rotary tumbler shapes rocks well. It rounds everything off and removes material well. The vibratory tumbler is really good at putting a shine on them.

[@monetaryvalue2303]

So happy I found your channel! I’ve always loved rocks and am up north in the UP right now and have collected so many agates and finally decided that when I get home i’m going to try to tumble some of them. Thanks for the the help getting started!

[@MichiganRocks]

You collected "so many agates"?!?! I'm jealous. I have spent many hours in the past few years looking for agates. I find very few. Those things are elusive.

[@Whateverhasbeenmynameforyears]

That slide show was really useful. I like the vibratory tumbled ones best most of the time but when I thought I would like raw best I liked the full tumble more than the vibratory.

[@MichiganRocks]

To me it depended on the rock. I liked some one way and some the other way.

[@Whateverhasbeenmynameforyears]

@@MichiganRocks I was under the impression you liked the rotary tumble best on all of them. :) Good to know you are a little more split than that.

[@maryatteberry8796]

Love every single one of these..it is hard to see the loss of rock with the tumbling..but the end result is just stunning ..great job as always!!!

[@MichiganRocks]

The size change doesn't show because I crop all the photos so they fill the screen. I thought about trying to show them smaller after more tumbling, but I can't remember exactly how big there were to start.

[@Kick_Rocks_]

@@MichiganRocks Maybe place them next to a ruler or a coin for scale. I’d be interested in the amount of rock loss. I’m guessing it’s substantial

[@MichiganRocks]

@@Kick_Rocks_ It depends on the rock, but sometimes they come out half the size.

[@jasonochoochoski7442]

I love looking at rocks...Thanks so much for your interest and dedication.

[@grandpajim329]

🤗🤗 AWESOME Collection!!! ALWAYS a treat to watch and hear your view on the different options you have. THANK YOU for your video.😍😍😍😍😍

[@MichiganRocks]

You're welcome!

[@maryseaman312]

The more videos I watch, the more attractive rocks appear to me. I have never been sure why I have been so fascinated, but I was convinced that rocks told a story. It has taken a long time and a LOT of technology to get me here today, and I totally get being fascinated by just LOOKING! My appreciation for rocks has greatly increased, as has my awe at the things they tell about why they look the way the look - - like most of us: a lot of life and living going on in them thar hills! (or rivers, as the case may be.

[@MichiganRocks]

I need to learn more geology because that's where the story of rocks is. When I've gone rock hunting with geologists, I have been impressed with all that a rock can tell them about its past.

[@maryseaman312]

I have thought that many times as I have watched your videos. One of the things that has influenced my attraction to rockhounding videos is because I have been learning a bit about geology, and I have wondered why you have not explained that many of the white lines we see in these rocks comes from water at some point of that rock's "life" ... I don't know much, but it has become quite evident to me that understanding geology would greatly enhance your videos. The process of how the rock got to where it has gotten and looks like it looks is apparently quite the study ... just makes me appreciate them more, to say the least@@MichiganRocks

[@mctron22rd]

That is straight up eye candy!!! I never get tired Looking at rocks!

[@MichiganRocks]

You're in the right place then. I have lots of rocks for you to look at!

[@providencedivine1]

First of all thank you! My hubby and I love the process you take us through. We appreciate your knowledge and direction which you include in the description. It is been a great help as we process our hunted rocks into gems, we turn to jewels. We are just starting out and your videos have been a serious help. Lastly, we love ❤ 😍 💖 the slide shows. We have determined, depending on the agate; we like first and last on the same rock or just the second on a rock 🪨. We figured we would have never known had you not done this experiment. Now we know, based on the style or type of agate, which we will in the future, tumble, vibrate, slab, or rotary tumble from what you have shared here. Thanks again.

[@MichiganRocks]

I'm glad you're finding the videos helpful. I learned something from this one too. I usually like them as smooth as possible, but I preferred less tumbling on some of these.

[@providencedivine1]

@@MichiganRocks Yes we noticed that you get them extremely smooth most of the time. We agree, sometimes less is more. It gives the stone a bit more character.

[@sunqwest1]

I think they are all awesome. Flaws are character marks.

[@MichiganRocks]

That's a good way to look at it.

[@susantipsyhealy7655]

I use the rotary tumbler first, but not always. If I have soft rocks i fore go the rotary. And yes. I do cut rocks down to remove imperfections or use the grinder as you do. Thanks for sharing the steps involved and the difference between the types of tumblers

[@MichiganRocks]

You're welcome, Susan. It's fun to have both kinds of tumblers so I can experiment with different ways to use them.

[@Mike-br8vb]

Awesome presentation, I watched till the end. Great to see the before and after shots.

[@MichiganRocks]

Thanks!

[@williamcosner5283]

My granddaughter and I have learned to polish rocks watching your channel, thank you for all your help and hard work making the videos. We finished our first batch 2 weeks ago. We were not satisfied with the sparkle of our rocks . Yours were much better than ours. We ran another finish polish cycle, better but still not as good as yours. Today I put the whole batch in the vibrating tumbler with warm water and a few drops of “finish” Jet-dry rinse aid, the stuff you add to your dishwasher to make your glasses and dishes shine. Big improvement. The dullness disappeared. We will be starting our second batch soon. Thank you for your channel.

[@MichiganRocks]

That's the first time I've heard of using Jet Dry in a tumbler. I'm glad it worked for you. Are you using a quality polish? Not all things sold as polish are equally good.

[@savagesquirrel9828]

I like the cracks and chingars “ There is a crack in everything...that’s how the light gets in.” 😀

[@darkcrystalmagik3369]

Leonard Cohen!

[@BeautifulLife000H]

I like the 4 month fully worked and polished look. They turned out spectacular. I can't help thinking that God left these for us to find, and bring out the beauty.

[@MichiganRocks]

I liked some of these better with less tumbling and some with more. You're right, God made some amazing things for us.

[@dawnmorning]

I like 3rd pics best. Brings out beauty of stones. Thanks

[@MichiganRocks]

That was the point of this video, to show the results of different tumbling methods.

[@kismetkatt3604]

You had me at “How can you not like looking at rocks” ! 😺

[@MichiganRocks]

People who don't like rocks are weird.

[@karenpacker8862]

I'm always looking at rocks wherever we go!!! The agates are gorgeous. Thank for showing us and teaching us so much!!!

[@MichiganRocks]

I think I learned something from this video too.

[@karenpacker8862]

@@MichiganRocks wow and what was that?

[@MichiganRocks]

@@karenpacker8862 This is the first time I've ever run some rocks in just the vibratory tumbler and then started the same batch over from the beginning using the rotary tumbler. I have never seen the exact same rock tumbled two different ways. It's also the first time I've tumbled Lakers.

[@jamespiel946]

I always enjoy your videos. Your channel was one of the first ones I came across and watched when I started tumbling rocks about 6 months ago, very informative for a beginning tumbler. I like rocks finished the smoother the better as long as you don't compromise the focus areas detail. I am jealous of the shine that you achieve. Since I only have a rotary tumbler, I realize I probably won't get the tremendous shine you get with a vibratory one. Keep the videos coming.

[@MichiganRocks]

I do think it’s easier to get a good shine with a vibe, but you can definitely get just as good of a shine with a rotary tumbler.

[@brianholcomb940]

It hard to decide which ones are better, but I believe I am like you and prefer not having the deep pockets in them! They are awesome! Thanks for showing us the difference! You rock Sir!

[@MichiganRocks]

I usually prefer them completely smooth, but for these rocks in particular, I think some looked better before I tumbled them so much.

[@irishgrl]

I’m with you: how can you not love looking at rocks!

[@queenbee9505]

I like the more natural look, gives the rocks more character. Love bringing out thst character and beauty instead of manipulation

[@MichiganRocks]

I agree for a lot of these. For most rocks, I prefer to make them perfectly smooth. I guess it’s all a matter of personal taste.

[@vickizeller2010]

Gives me a whole new appreciation for agates! I did have fun watching! You can never look at too many rocks & crystals! Thanks for sharing!

[@MichiganRocks]

Glad you enjoyed it!

[@lynettepavelich7540]

Spectacular! Each one is so unique! I vote for curtain #2...half way between natural and polished! The quartz almost has a geode effect. Thx!

[@MichiganRocks]

Alright, your vote has been recorded!

[@tonywild1963]

That was a lovely box of agates. I love the quartz and fine banding in them. I agree with you Rob, they look much better shiny and smooth. Can't believe people miss the slide show. That's when you see them up close and the patterns. I like to watch it. Thank you

[@MichiganRocks]

I like some of them better after more tumbling, but I really did like some better with less tumbling. I think it's all the fractures in these rocks that make some look better with less tumbling.

[@sergioc.6431]

I prefer these type of videos. They help find the processes I'm trying to go with.

[@MichiganRocks]

I need to do a more in-depth rotary vs. vibratory videos one of these days.

[@jaejae2806]

Excellent video! Thanks for the comparison. I was 100% sure that I wanted a Rotary Tumbler. But now, I must confess that I’m going to buy a Vibratory Tumbler. The rock’s size isn’t greatly reduced and those unique features don’t get lost.

[@MichiganRocks]

Did you see my most recent video comparing rotary and vibratory tumblers? kzbin.info/www/bejne/a4eWZKuLidCgiK8

[@jneihart2]

LoL It's all fun and games... till someone loses an eye!!! Wonderful show again as usual. I even stayed for the slide show!

[@MichiganRocks]

I feel like I just scolded everyone for leaving before the slide show. I don't usually care, but I put a lot of time into this slideshow, and thought it was the best part. I didn't want anyone to miss it completely.

[@karleenpage5979]

@@MichiganRocks That's just part of being a good teacher!

[@CityRockhounding]

These turn out awesome, need to more research on agates, they're so cool.

[@paigelee6321]

Beautiful polish on those rocks 😊 thank you, I have found this is a learning process

[@MichiganRocks]

Good, I'm glad the videos are helpful.

[@jacqulynjohnson6237]

Oh heavens, you are such a hoot, you crack me up! Don’t change a thing with your videos, great the way they are! I’ve learned a ton of stuff, like terminology, types of rocks, tumbling, and the best....I hate going to beaches with crowds too!!

[@MichiganRocks]

I just ordered a microphone to improve my audio, is that an acceptable change?

[@jacqulynjohnson6237]

Michigan Rocks, ohhhh....I suppose, if you must. Lol!! Just be careful not to poke your eye out 🤣

[@quenbycarter9390]

Thank you for your wonderful videos. You are cementing in my mind that I need a flat lap along with my vibratory tumbler, and I should start chopping my agates in half first. I still will never have patience for a rotary.

[@MichiganRocks]

I'm sorry that I started you down an expensive path. If you have patience to look for used equipment, that's a good way to save a lot of money. Most of my stuff is very old.

[@pokagal7335]

I like the slide show. About the two techniques: there is a lot of good to say about both. Some of the stones you can get lost in. They are amazing. Thanks for showing.

[@MichiganRocks]

I think the best polishing method depends on the rock.

[@Smallathe]

I love the stones both ways. The tumbling still keeps the original rock shape, and the rotary exposes the inner soul, so to speak. Very cool rock tubling and vibrating... :)

[@MichiganRocks]

"The inner soul" I like that. I kind of like them both ways too.

[@kevinsmith4559]

Brilliant video for comparing some flaw removals and the results. Has me inspired to grind down some less than stellar ones to hopefully make them better in the end.

[@MichiganRocks]

Great, glad I could help.

[@ruthchapman3847]

Gosh those are beautiful. Next year I'm going hunting for agates. Thanks for the great info. Beautiful work by God and mother nature

[@MichiganRocks]

God sure does some amazing things. Whenever I start learning more about any science topic, I'm always amazed at how much more complicated it was that I realized. I think God made it so that the more we study something, the more we realize just how cool of a creation it actually is. He sure gave us a lot of fun things to discover.

[@lilalightandlove421]

I love the fine polish too. I recently picked some Minnesota agates (quite small) and thanks to your tutorial, I know what to expect when polishing my agates. This was great! The slide show presented the stages beautifully and gave me a true appreciation for the size of agates I’ve seen in the agate shops of Minnesota. Thanks again for the hours of long hours preparing this video. It was worth it to me and many others!

[@MichiganRocks]

I'm glad you enjoyed it. Comments like this keep me going. I just spent most of the day editing one video.

[@paul5149]

The slide show at the end was very interesting and I am sure it took a good bit of time to do it. Thank you for going to the effort to do it and for telling us we should stay and watch. :-)

[@MichiganRocks]

I'm glad you stuck around, that was the best part, in my opinion.

[@nomisnomis1188]

You, Sir, have pushed me over the edge on my decision. I AM BUYING A TUMBLER AND LOOKING FOR ROCKS ON MY DAYS OFF :)

[@MichiganRocks]

You're welcome! Have you decided on a tumbler yet? Some are better than others in my opinion. The Rock Shed usually has the best prices in my experience. rockshed.com There has been a shortage of tumblers available during the pandemic, so you might need to wait a while to get one. I think you'll enjoy both the rock hunt and later the tumbling. They compliment each other nicely.

[@debbielucas7792]

Love Tuesdays and rocks in a box. Rocks are so beautiful and no two are alike. As for which I prefer after tumbling, I tend to go for the really smooth ones that you tumble all the rough edges off. Terrific channel!

[@MichiganRocks]

That's the way I usually like them too, which is obvious to anyone watching my Rocks in a Box videos. However, there were several in this batch that I thought looked better before I tumbled every flaw out of them.

[@AQUATICSLIVE]

Neat slideshow. Wow can't believe how much some of them changed.

[@MichiganRocks]

I didn’t really notice either until the slideshow. When you’re checking on them all along the way, you kind of miss the transformation sometimes.

[@CFullm]

Great informative video Rob! Each rock has its own personality and I believe they all need to be treated differently. Some rocks look great completely raw while some need to be baby butt smooth and highly polished and then there is everything in between. To me this video shows that. In my opinion some of those rocks looked amazing raw some looked great after the first polish.

[@MichiganRocks]

That's what I was after with this video and the one before it. I'm glad you liked it.

[@twasbrillig33]

I COME HERE FOR BOTH YOU and the ROCKS! Your heart and your personal passion is a HUGE draw for me to be here.

[@MichiganRocks]

Gee, thanks! I think the rocks are more fun to look at though.

[@angelapatenaude9440]

it is very fun to look at your rock, no wonder my rock do not shine like yours I quit running them after 8 weeks. I wish I had the patients. lol

[@margaretgilbertson1118]

Wow! I just gotta say you are a master tumbler. Next level shine. Some LSAs look their best in their working cloths, others in the vibratory while others look best after the rotary. The great thing about LSAs is they almost always look good no matter which you choose.

[@MichiganRocks]

I agree, they are some really cool rocks and they do look good all three ways.

[@laurawoodruff3484]

The slide show is really cool...I have learned so much from you, just got my first tumbler...I drive semi truck so when I’m in our home state I scour the ground at every delivery😂

[@MichiganRocks]

That's cool. It gives you something to look forward at the end of your trip.

[@sandraedwards9943]

Each one has their own special AWE Factor. I like the cracks it gives them their unique looks. Yes I find it always fun and relaxing looking for rocks.

[@MichiganRocks]

Lake Superior agates are AWEsome rocks for sure.

[@dreamlookautodetailingauto3353]

I love the rocks with the quarts! They are all great 👍.

[@BlackHills68]

Thanks Much for the side by of all 3 stones. Very eye opening. Just got a vibratory tumbler and it helps me decide my tumbling routine. Thanks

[@MichiganRocks]

I think there was more of a difference in the two methods because these were Lake Superior agates. I think I tumbled right through the pattern on some of them.

[@HiwasseeRiver]

8:32 Looks like a side on view of a galaxy, very nice work

[@ruthsawyer3357]

What a lovely rocks, I enjoyed watching and love it all, it’s a real beauty.

[@MichiganRocks]

Thanks!

[@dwighthawkins5955]

Excellent presentation. I collect rocks in WY, Mt, CO, and KS and now I'm inspired to tumble.

[@MichiganRocks]

I highly recommend it! It's been a fun hobby for me.

[@barb6525]

I totally agree with you, I loose track of time watching rocks, and you get so mesmerized even if it is the 40th time you look at the same rock 😅 As for your question, I have to say it depends on the rock what I prefer, I loved the depth of some in the first round, and some came out even more stunning in the last tumbler. Wish I could afford both machines, that would be a huge upgrade from the sandpaper and polishpaper I use now 😂 Love your work! Thanks for sharing your knowledge and thoughts 😎

[@MichiganRocks]

I think that I over tumbled some of these and others looked better with more tumbling. I don't think that's true of all types of rocks though. I think you can tumble through the bands on Lake Superior agates. Most of the time, I like my rocks tumbled until all the holes are gone.

[@pinkfrog8686]

I prefer rotary tumble too. I could look a at rocks all day and never get bored 😁 So beautiful. You need to write a book on how to polish rocks.

[@MichiganRocks]

I have a book mostly written. I started it several years ago and just lost interest in finishing it. It's one of the things on my list of stuff to do this winter.

[@pinkfrog8686]

@@MichiganRocks I can’t wait to buy it. I just love how your rocks turn out. I’ve never really liked pudding stones until I seen yours polished absolutely stunning. I love the shine and smoothness of your rocks. Thank you so much for your video’s.

[@tinkerbellblue5142]

Thanks Rob for going to so much effort and showing us the outcome, 👍👍👍👍🥰🏴󠁧󠁢󠁷󠁬󠁳󠁿🏴󠁧󠁢󠁷󠁬󠁳󠁿🏴󠁧󠁢󠁷󠁬󠁳󠁿

[@MichiganRocks]

You're welcome. I know people here appreciate it, but it's nice to hear it.

[@darkcrystalmagik3369]

This is one of my fav of the rock tumbling vids yet. I'm a newbie to hounding and tumbling and this video was very informative, especially the slideshow. Makes me want a vibratory tumbler next to achieve a more natural yet polished appearance in my stones.

[@MichiganRocks]

I plan to do a video at some point explaining the difference between the two tumblers. I'm glad you found this one helpful.

[@angelapatenaude9440]

some of your rocks I liked in the second stage and some I liked in the third stage but I defiantly liked them all

[@MichiganRocks]

I agree, I should have stopped earlier with some of these. Others looked better with more tumbling though. It's hard to know when to stop, and I hope this video illustrated that.

[@notinmanitou]

I really like the slide shows at the end. I think I would have split the agates 50/50, did some just in the Lotto, and some the usual way. I love the great polish you get with your usual method, but it hurts to see them shrink so. It's so great to have your videos to refer to when we are getting ready to try rock tumbling. Thanks so much!

[@MichiganRocks]

I liked a lot of these better when they were just done in the Lot-O. I think I tumbled right through the bands in some of them.

[@bekahw8704]

So beautiful!! I see so much more contrast after the first process than in the finished polish in many of these. The finished rocks are so polished though, that I can imagine it's more satisfying.

[@MichiganRocks]

It's a tough call. I saw exactly what you did. I prefer the smoother look, but there was some good stuff lost getting there.

[@sethwilliams3630]

Without the before and after slide show I would have said I prefer the vibratory tumblers rougher look. After the slide show I must admit, the clean, smooth rotary examples are far more appealing. I think you sold me on rotary tumbling agates.

[@MichiganRocks]

I was really happy with how this video and the one before it turned out. It ended up being more educational that I even intended. I want to do a more in depth explanation of the difference between the two tumblers.

[@soaprincee]

I really love the slideshow. My favorite part. I pause and just staring at the screen for a long time.

[@MichiganRocks]

Is anyone else in the house? They might worry about you.

[@soaprincee]

@@MichiganRocks lol

[@RockhoundingLife]

Very cool video. This is very useful for people, especially beginners, to see what each tumbler does to the rocks. That way they can choose the tumbler based on their desired look. Very informative. The rocks looked great as well!! Nice job as always!

[@MichiganRocks]

That was one of my goals here. The other reason I did it is because I really couldn't decide which way I should tumble these. They're so cool that I didn't want to mess it up. I think the answer is that depending on the particular rock, one way might be better than the other.

[@RockhoundingLife]

@@MichiganRocks i know what you mean. With agates I like a more natural shape, divets and pits are ok, but shiny. With jasper, chert and most other rocks I like all the imperfections gone.

[@glennsowacke9752]

Awesome video!!! Just wanted to thank you. Your videos got me back into this love of lapidary!

[@MichiganRocks]

You're welcome, and welcome back!

[@timcarver5492]

I just finished a double batch of Panama and Blue Agate today. I went through them all twice, and I may go through them again after your slide show! Just love the way they turned out; yours and mine. I only use rotary tumblers, but my agate batches can spend up to 7 weeks in course grit and a little trimming as needed. I also add a step of 1000 grit. I don't like my tumbles too small so it's a delicate balance. Thanks for sharing, I enjoy your videos.

[@MichiganRocks]

I used to do a 1000 grit step in my Lot-O, but I found that if I eliminated that and ran the 500 for three days instead of two, the results were the same. The 1000 stage might be more important in a rotary. I have heard that with softer stones, a 1000 step is a good idea, probably because softer stones take longer to break down the grit.

[@kimdahlquist5480]

Well... I am a long time lover of rocks, but a newbie to tumbling them. I picked up a Lortone 33B and am in my first attempt at tumbling stones from around our shed in one barrel... and glass in the other barrel. Will enjoy learning from your videos. Thanks for sharing your insight and experience with others! 😊

[@MichiganRocks]

Good luck with the new tumbler. It's not difficult, it just takes patience. I'm planning to tumble some glass one of these days too. I need to find some more colored stuff first.

[@fantastic9346]

That slideshow at the end is really neat.

[@MichiganRocks]

I thought so, that's why I mentioned sticking around for it. Thanks for watching it.

[@tuesdayfarmer1619]

I love the slide shows, that’s what we come here for, right!? the ROCKS AND YOU TOO OF COURSE! But I don’t understand how anyone wouldn’t want to watch the slide show at the end! You get to see all that hard work payoff!

[@MichiganRocks]

I just filmed a Rocks in a Box episode yesterday with before and after pictures. I tried something new this time. It was a video about rocks I collected from various beaches this summer, so I'd show one beach's rocks and then immediately show the slideshow, then I'd do the next beach and so on. Those before and after pictures take hours to do, so I thought this might get some more people to watch them. I really think some people have just never seen the before and after pictures and don't know what they're missing.

[@tuesdayfarmer1619]

Michigan Rocks Exactly! I I honestly think that it’s the best part, you get to see all the beauty Finally exposed! Another thing, I don’t think people really realize all the hard work that goes into making your final product video and All. But it’s cool you switching things up a little too I think it gives opportunities for everyone to get their enjoyment how ever that may be :) but one things for sure I’m never disappointed :) just always amazed!

[@MichiganRocks]

@@tuesdayfarmer1619 Thanks, Tuesday!

[@Matthew-oy2uj]

The hardest decision in life is when to move a rock onto the next stage when it is not perfect but it is getting too small. Keep making these great videos. I love watching to see where you will slip in the Michigan Rocks banner.

[@MichiganRocks]

That sure is tough sometimes. I'm guilty of tumbling rocks away to nothing in the quest to get it perfect. I never thought of where I put the Michigan Rocks title in as being a game. I'm glad you're having fun with it.

[@easterazali9237]

How could one not love these stunning treasures ! They’re.fascinating ! 🥰 ✨

[@MichiganRocks]

You're preaching to the choir!

[@easterazali9237]

@@MichiganRocks I know you’re the master of rocks and love agates the most 😊 I’m just muttering to myself how I feel about the beauty of nature’s art , that’s all 💗

[@beckyjo8745]

I get SO jeleous when I see ALL those beautiful amazing rocks!!!! GOSH how I want some!!! I really really want to learn how to do rock tumbling! I have loved rocks my whole life! There were a few I saw in the slide show I liked better with just the first tumbling with a natural shape to them and there were many that I liked after the second one. But they were all beautiful!!! I love the little bits of quartz in them.

[@MichiganRocks]

If you want to learn to tumble, I think you've come to the right place. I have ideas for a lot of instructional tumbling videos to do this winter.

[@beckyjo8745]

@@MichiganRocks I will be watching those for sure! Also maybe give some ideas for inexpensive but decent tumblers and such that are good for a beginner to. That would be helpful to. 💦😊💦

[@6stringgunner511]

Beautiful collection of treasure. Great video. I'm playing catch-up with your videos. Just got back from DC a couple days ago. Been home recovering from the cold parking garage. Also, been slinging rounds down range with my 6.5 credemore. Fine tuned at 900 yards. I got my coffee, a warm fire in the fireplace and michigan rocks playing. Life is good!

[@MichiganRocks]

You've been busy!

[@susiesmith6174]

Hi, WOW, amazing results!!! Some I liked better in just the vibratory one and the rest looked much better after the tumbler. My grand kids find me all sorts of rocks and I love finding the beauty in them. I'd love to find rocks like you have up there, but I live in the High Desert, we have gorgeous rocks, but nothing like yours!!! So glad I came across your channel!!! Thanks for all the advice. Keep up the great work, I'm so jealous!!! Oh and I just found out about borax, duhh, after 2 years you'd think I'd have known!!! My current batch is going for their "bubble bath" this weekend, wish me luck in making them sparkle like diamonds!!! Take care, stay safe and warm.

[@MichiganRocks]

Good luck on turning out some really shiny rocks! We really are blessed with some beautiful rocks in Michigan.

[@snowballil3133]

I like the 2nd outcomes in the slideshow. Some rocks look good any way there made(polished) , even rough and natural.

[@MichiganRocks]

I liked some tumbled more and others I liked tumbled less. It's a tough call to know when to stop. I usually err on the side of tumbling more rather than less. Sounds like you prefer the opposite.

[@upbow4774]

I love the final (3rd) view. I love the finished highly polished look. Good job.

[@MichiganRocks]

I usually prefer that look too, but there were several of these that I think looked better after just the vibratory tumbling.

[@cindylou4287]

I really enjoyed your video. Couldn't stop watching. Just amazing to see the transition.

[@MichiganRocks]

Good, I'm glad I kept you entertained. I thought it might have gotten a little long.

[@judispackman3616]

THEY ARE ALL REALLY GORGEOUS.

[@MichiganRocks]

You can thank God for that. I just spiffed them up a little.

[@lindaeads7536]

I so enjoy others with the same passion as I for rocks so watching your videos are such fun. The banding on agates are a real favorite of mine. But honestly, I love even chirt in all its gray spendor! I ordered one of your t-shirts recently; can't wait to get it.

[@MichiganRocks]

Thanks for ordering a shirt! I have a couple really nice pieces of banded chert that I tumbled. They can be really pretty, but the really nice pieces are pretty rare. They don't tend to be as fractured as agates either.

[@SherryAustinMcginley]

There are good things to say about all stages of polishing-different characteristics, etc, but I think I like the end results best. There’s just something soothing in the feel of a smooth stone in your hand.

[@MichiganRocks]

I agree. There are advantages to all three ways I showed. I like the more smoothed out look too, but for some of these I liked natural or just vibratory tumbled.