Lake Superior Agates - Vibratory Tumbled

Check out these before and after pictures of Lake Superior Agates tumbled in a vibratory tumbler. Thanks to Adam Anderson for the awesome box of agates!
Here's the follow up video showing these same rocks done in a rotary tumbler for several months followed by a vibratory tumbler for a week: • Comparing Rotary and V...
Recipe:
All steps done in Lot-O tumbler.
1 day with 2 tablespoons of 120/220, clean out.
1 day with 2 tablespoons of 120/220, clean out.
2 days with 2 tablespoons of 120/220, clean out carefully. I was very careful to clean out holes and cracks with a needle and a toothbrush. The needle worked well for grit stuck in deep holes.
Run for a couple hours with 1 tablespoon of borax to clean extra well.
3 days with 1/2 teaspoon of 500 grit aluminum oxide and one tablespoon of borax, clean carefully and run in borax for couple hours.
2 days with 1/2 teaspoon of aluminum oxide polish and one tablespoon of borax, clean carefully and run in borax for couple hours.
Enjoy!
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Kingsley North is a lapidary store in Michigan's U.P. They make a great cab machine and sell many other brands too. They have a huge selection rough rock, tumblers, grit, jewelry supplies etc. at good prices. I buy most of my coarse grit from here in 45 lb. bags. It's the best price I have found. If you buy using the following link, I make a small commission.
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[@adamanderson7109]

Awsome video, thanks for making it , and yes I broke that one agate lol, but I did buy a tumbler and a saw so that I can hopefully make some nice looking rocks like you do!

[@MichiganRocks]

Thanks again for the beautiful agates, Adam. You're going to have a lot of fun with a saw and tumbler.

[@gasmask9157]

Coool!!!

[@Rookie_Rockounding]

Man thank you Adam for sharing these rocks so Rob could share them with us. You’re a legend!

[@adamanderson7109]

@@Rookie_Rockounding thank you ! And thank you for making awsome videos!

[@farzadramtiin]

Mr. ADAM; Thank You for sharing and informing US about The "Lake Superior Agate". 👍 Mr. Rob; Thanks for ALL helpful Rock Tumblig Job YOU Done and Sharing it with US.👌🙏 If You Don´t Mind, I do Apprecaite it You or anyone that can help me to where can i purchase Natural Rough Rock for Beginning Rock Tumbling. PEACE.☀✌

[@dawnmorning]

Awesome to see them from begining.

[@kylaabegglen1275]

I know this was a year ago, but I really love this video Rob! The entire slide show at the end is the perfect example of why I love tumbled and polished rocks. It just enhances the beauty they already have. Awesome how tumbling took off almost all of the yellow limonite staining to show all of the bands of beauty. During the video I noticed at least one that has shadow banding too, very cool! Thanks for sharing this. Awesome video!✌🤠

[@MichiganRocks]

That slide show shows what I like too. I love the process of tumbling at least as much as the results. It's so fun to watch the transformation along the way.

[@patriciamckean4186]

If you ground out the imperfections you would lose most of the natural beauty. That tumbling job is great!

[@jneihart2]

Uh-O now you've gone and done it!!! The "before & after" is totally awesome! I'm thinking this may be a must from here on out!

[@MichiganRocks]

Get that idea out of your head right now.

[@pennyhoward3438]

Wow oh wow! I do believe that was THE Best box of rocks!! Great idea with the before and after slide show! Thanks for sharing👍👍👍👍

[@MichiganRocks]

Don't get too used to the before and after pictures, they take a TON of time. These were worth it though.

[@purrrrson]

My son has been working in an area where there's lots of rocks and he's been bringing some home, for me. The other day was a rain day and he was all about excited because he could see their banding so much better. He said that he's been spending more time looking for rocks than working, lol! Have to say......I love how there is always 'just one more' or 'last one'.

[@MichiganRocks]

When he gets fired, he can spend even more time!

[@purrrrson]

Michigan Rocks Unfortunately, it's on company property so he wouldn't be allowed on the property without a badge, otherwise, I'd be going to work with him, lol!

[@purrrrson]

Michigan Rocks No, he confessed that he sees lots but doesn't have time to pick them up or really check them out. He actually got permission, though, to bring me out there, this weekend. I'll let you know how it turns out.

[@MichiganRocks]

@@purrrrson Good luck, that sounds like a lot of fun.

[@sharonschwab7104]

Thank you for all the time & effort you put not only in the rocks, but the pictures are fantastic, too. I wish I could polish rocks like you do.

[@MichiganRocks]

I have quite a few videos about how I polish them. It's not difficult, it just takes patience and a decent tumbler and grit.

[@craftykat]

OMG, I am blown away by how gorgeous these are! It's like each rock has hidden beauty. I could watch these all day (and I have been, lol). Thank you so much for doing this; now I know I need to get a vibratory tumbler, as I just want to make the natural stones shiny. I hope I can find a good beginner one that won't cost a fortune.

[@MichiganRocks]

Make sure you buy one made for rocks and not for tumbling metal. Those are made for light weight things like bullet casings.

[@ceanothus_bluemoon]

Just found your channel and subscribed. What gorgeous rocks, before and after tumbling. Seeing the beauty our amazing planet produces never gets old.

[@MichiganRocks]

You're right. There's no end to the beautiful things God made for us to discover.

[@darkwood777]

That was a lot of work to get all the before and after photos lined up and in the right sequence. Good job! I have several favorites, mostly the ones with quartz in the center. The world would be a better place if we all simply admired the beauty of rocks instead of throwing them at each other.

[@MichiganRocks]

And I did all that twice. My computer crashed and I lost all my work just as I was uploading it the first time. It was kind of a bummer. I didn't throw any rocks at anyone though.

[@darkwood777]

My brother threw rocks. LOL. Guess he thought I wanted to look at them closer.

[@MichiganRocks]

@@darkwood777 Haha!

[@silkeeberle8484]

The polish on your Rocks is incredible. I like the shine.

[@MichiganRocks]

Thanks, Silke.

[@ruthsawyer3357]

Fascinating, I enjoyed watching your videos. Never get bored of watching because you presented so well.

[@MichiganRocks]

I'm glad you're enjoying them.

[@kaybree6738]

I read the recipe and process. Wow! And that doesn't include the photography process! THANK YOU! Shared and will watch again.

[@MichiganRocks]

Please don't get spoiled by the before and after pictures. I don't have time to do that every time. I was happy with how they came out though.

[@kaybree6738]

Michigan Rocks Watched again. That's how I will get spoiled.

[@elizabethharttley4073]

Superb! Many thanks to the fan that shared those rocks. You did well with show and tell, i liked every moment. I hope you felt it was worth the effort cause i did. Muy Bueno, couldn't pick a favorite. Again you have exceeded what i wanted to see and I'm grateful for the time and effort out forth. Peace

[@MichiganRocks]

I was very happy with the results. I'm looking forward to seeing them done the other way.

[@elizabethharttley4073]

@@MichiganRocks I didn't consider how much gets ground off when tumbling. To witness the changes brings understanding. I like all the stages, raw to high shine.

[@MichiganRocks]

@@elizabethharttley4073 A vibratory tumbler like I used here doesn't round of the rocks much at all. Wait until you see these after rotary tumbling.

[@Thewarhorse47]

Wow, how could anyone NOT watch the slideshow at the end? So cool.

[@MichiganRocks]

As of right now, the average person got to the 5 minute, 29 second mark in the video.

[@gwynnfarrell1856]

Wow, the color change from before to after is really dramatic! I watched all the way through, kind of feel like I'm getting to know the individual rocks. Your next step is really going to change them. Can't wait to see what happens. Thanks for sharing a great video.

[@MichiganRocks]

I feel like I get to know all the rocks I tumble. Usually it's from doing weekly clean outs, but this time it was more from taking pictures. With all the holes I had to spend a lot of time with a toothbrush between each stage.

[@gwynnfarrell1856]

@@MichiganRocks That's a disadvantage of tumbling the rougher rocks for sure.

[@nancygaxiola5412]

Those are the most beautiful agates I have seen from you! Even if they are not all agates, they are all so beautiful! I'll have to look to see if you ever went back there!

[@MichiganRocks]

These were sent to me by a viewer. They're from Minnesota, and I agree, they're awesome.

[@sueerickson4849]

Beautiful! Adam found some great agates. They turned out beautiful after polishing.

[@MichiganRocks]

He sure did. This was a fun project and I can't wait to get started on the next part.

[@lizlaine9319]

The one with the weird line in it looks like a rose bud. Beautiful agates!❤❤

[@erikjohnson1137]

This channel has been so inspiring. I found 2 agates today on the Chicago Northshore. Who woulda known?

[@MichiganRocks]

That's awesome. I think if they are found in Lake Michigan, they's probably be considered coldwater agates.

[@erikjohnson1137]

@@MichiganRocks awesome thats cool to know. Its a tough topic to research.

[@MichiganRocks]

@@erikjohnson1137 Someone explained it to me on Facebook. I think they said that coldwater agates form in limestone. That might help with your search terms.

[@upnorthadventureswithccc]

Omg they are amazing looking !! I never seen so many different varieties of agates all in one video. I was drooling, for real. Just stunning !!

[@MichiganRocks]

Get a napkin and wipe your chin!

[@lindaeads4770]

Lake Superior agates are some of Mother Nature's greatest works of art. These are just gorgeous.

[@MichiganRocks]

I agree!

[@victoriadawydiuk4172]

Some of the rocks interiors remind me of Hubble telescope photos. Beautiful!

[@MichiganRocks]

It's funny that I've heard that comment about several different batches of rocks.

[@danielcole9620]

I really enjoy watching your videos on rock tumbling. The colors are just vibrant after the polish. Very impressive.

[@MichiganRocks]

I'm glad you're enjoying them!

[@anitamitchell3452]

It feels like Christmas morning. Thank you Rob for all the work you've done. Wow just wow.

[@MichiganRocks]

It was more work than you realize. My computer crashed as I was uploading the first time. Then I spent about three hours redoing a good chunk of the work I lost. I was a little grumpy.

[@anitamitchell3452]

@@MichiganRocks I'd say you were entitled to be a bit grumpy. Hope everything is working properly now. And, thanks again .. The change in the rocks was almost unbelievable.

[@karenpacker8862]

Extremely gorgeous!!! Heres hoping we find one ...oneday!

[@MichiganRocks]

They're not easy to find, that's for sure. I've done a lot of looking and haven't found too many.

[@danderth]

Wow, that was exciting. Nice video. I enjoyed the journey you took us on.

[@MichiganRocks]

Not everyone would use the word "exciting" when talking about rock tumbling, but you fit in pretty well here using it.

[@tricks4trades795]

Great video! I love the shot at the end showing all the tumbled rocks together

[@MichiganRocks]

Those pictures took forever to do, but I really like how they turned out too.

[@soumyavk2642]

You have a great collection...theres no doubt...but what i like the most is your work area. You are so well organized. Machinery...Lamps...board...tumbler...rocks...storage areas and boxes....desk...it's so neat all the time. Keep it up. ♥️. Lot to learn from you. Thx so much.👍

[@MichiganRocks]

Don't believe everything you see. I just read this to my wife and she laughed. I have a secret. Behind the camera is a mess. I just straighten up in front of the camera before I start filming. It's not a deep mess. I can have it completely cleaned up in less than a half hour at any time, but it's not exactly tidy either. Thanks for believing my lie!

[@aydamercado6798]

Wow.... wow....wow.... you are a rock mentalist... is incredible how you know what’s inside before you cut it. But your tumble work.... is so perfect 👌 and unique!!! Bravo 👏🏻

[@MichiganRocks]

I did not know what was inside. I knew these were agates and I knew that the outside wasn't showing everything, but I'm as surprised as you are when I cut one open.

[@AgateDad]

Phenomenal!! Before and after was awesome 👌

[@MichiganRocks]

I thought you might like this one!

[@AgateDad]

@@MichiganRocks LOVE!

[@AgateDad]

@@MichiganRocks im probably going 6o be rewatching this one a few times lol so many beauties

[@clevinger71]

Personally ....I love the before and after shots! It's really nice to see how they transformed! Beautiful pieces!

[@MichiganRocks]

I love the before and after shots too. Very time consuming to do though, so don't get too used to them. Think of them as a special occasion.

[@clevinger71]

@@MichiganRocks .....lol, I'm sure it is!

[@betojdesigns]

Wow, that beautiful reveal after slicing never ever gets old. Could have watched that for hours. I cannot begin to imagine the time you invested in the photography of shooting before and after and painstakingly getting each rock in perfect position for the camera. Are you rock crazy 😜 ? I think we all are, or we wouldn’t be enjoying and encouraging you to make more videos. I appreciate your attention to detail on these gorgeous agates. Loved them all ❤️

[@MichiganRocks]

I have rocks in my head for sure. It did take a lot of time to take the pictures and resize them and put them in the correct order, and then my computer crashed and lost a lot of my video editing, so that added about another three hours to my day. It all turned out good in the end though.

[@susanschmitz5871]

This is the best video yet that you’ve made! Just beautiful!!

[@MichiganRocks]

Thanks.

[@karenh2945]

Wow- these are awesome agates! I I want to break all my rocks in half now! Next I’m going to watch your other video to get an idea what to do with all the rocks in my boxes :)

[@MichiganRocks]

Please cut them, don't break them. Breaking doesn't usually turn out so nice.

[@notinmanitou]

These look great! What a great gift! Thanks for showing us the difference between the rotary and vibratory tumblers.

[@storytimewithunclebill1998]

That was an awesome broken rock. Lot of cool colors and patterns. Amazing rocks. The slide show really shows the difference. Was fun to watch. Great video

[@MichiganRocks]

I don’t do a lot of before and after slide shows because they take forever to do, but I really like how they turn out when I do.

[@mctron22rd]

Yes, keep the glare! They really are amazing! I am in love with them all. I love the slide shows, I could look at rocks all day long!

[@MichiganRocks]

I have enough videos to keep you busy for a day or two.

[@mctron22rd]

@@MichiganRocks oh I know you do I binge watch your channel! Maybe you do not recognize my profile pic, maybe my name? Because I changed my profile pic. I Do hope you remember my name tho, I am a fan of all your videos and I binge watch your channel, and I also have watched some of your videos, more than once!

[@MichiganRocks]

@@mctron22rd I'm really bad at names in real life and on here it's even worse.

[@michelleshorey8103]

Pretty cool. Great video and educational, too. Some rocks I liked better before they were tumbled but the multicolored ones with quartz came out beautiful. Thank you. Keep 'em comin'.

[@MichiganRocks]

Lake Superior agate is one rock that I think can look better in its natural state. I did have fun tumbling these though.

[@joolzbohr]

I love the slide shows! These are amazing!

[@MichiganRocks]

Thanks!

[@pegjackson9716]

Those agates are just gorgeous and you get such a phenomenal polish on them! Thanks for sharing .

[@MichiganRocks]

They are really pretty. I hope the next tumble goes as well.

[@WorldofRockhounds]

I like how clean your shop is!

[@MichiganRocks]

It doesn't look too bad when I move all the clutter behind the camera.

[@suzettecalleja3122]

They are beautiful. I love the before and after. Thank you.

[@MichiganRocks]

You're welcome.

[@morgand7869]

I can’t believe how shiny these are 😯

[@MichiganRocks]

The Lot-O tumbler does a great job at shining up rocks.

[@tonywild6581]

Wow those were beautiful and shiny rocks, I love the ones with the quartz running through them. Well done rob, lovely video.

[@MichiganRocks]

I think most agate hunters hope to not have quartz in them, but a lot of people here really enjoy the quartz. I like that we don't all like the same things.

[@margaretphipps2494]

Wow amazing I see faces,animals,some scary some beautiful. Your right it is hard too choose a favourite. Xxx 🇮🇲

[@MichiganRocks]

You could look at these for a long time.

[@pokagal7335]

So easily entertained by a lovely box of rocks. Thanks for sharing your beautiful treasures. It's so much fun finding hidden beauty.

[@MichiganRocks]

This was a good batch, huh?

[@Okeroa12]

Awesome video, thanks! I love the before and after shots. I have a ton of natural rough agates this has inspired me to go buy a vibratory machine and tumbler.

[@MichiganRocks]

If you love rocks, you'll probably enjoy tumbling. Take a look at the Lot-O tumbler. It's a really good vibratory tumbler.

[@moonbear894]

Fantastic job. I feel like I understand agates much better now. They are beautiful! Nice friends. 24:48 is my favorite, like you could dive into a crystal lake.

[@MichiganRocks]

Wear a helmet.

[@beatfarmerfan]

Beautiful Agates! These are as good as what I see at the museum in Grand Marais. I have been hooked on doing Botswana Agates for months, and most of these rival them. The depth is amazing. Adam sure had some beauties. I’m sure they will look amazing after the rotary tumble. Heading up past Baraga tomorrow to search a gravel pit I got permission to enter, it rained today so that might help. I would keep the reflecting light on if it were me, it’s like what they call “catch light” in portraits. You always want that light in the eye. Thanks for the great shots.

[@MichiganRocks]

I'm jealous of your gravel pit hunt. I've always wanted to get into a pit in Minnesota, which I hear is difficult even if you live there, which I don't.

[@beatfarmerfan]

Michigan Rocks Wasn’t sure if that reply went through, when I hit send it locked up, and just showed the spinning timer. I had to watch the Space X launch, and just checked and the screen is still locked. There must be 30 gravel pits between Mqt. and Baraga, and I found a nice one just north of Autrain that I am trying to find out who owns so I can ask for permission.

[@MichiganRocks]

@@beatfarmerfan Good luck! I have heard of great hunting in Minnesota pits, but I haven't heard anything about people hunting Michigan pits.

[@wyomingadventures]

Wow, they all are so beautiful! There's no way I could pick just one favorite. Thank you for sharing. I'm sure doing this video took alot of time. Thanks Rob!

[@MichiganRocks]

It did take a lot of time and then my computer crashed just after I hit the upload button. Then I did it all again. Sort of a frustrating day.

[@user-hm6bn6kw6k]

Fascinating. And that agate at 14:14: a stained glass window.

[@easterazali9237]

Amazing ! I can’t get enough of these jewels of nature 🥰 thank you for bringing out their inner beauty 💐

[@MichiganRocks]

I know, I can't get enough either! Every time I see your avatar, I think you have spiky hair. Those trees in the background look like they're coming out of your head when the picture is very small. Don't change it though, or I won't recognize you.

[@easterazali9237]

They’re not trees but the wooden stumps of a pier 😂😂😂 you made me laugh so much thanks rob 👍

[@tott3457]

Thank you. I’ve been curious about how they can be tumbled but leave more shape and get a polish ❣️ 👍

[@MichiganRocks]

Well now you know. Some people prefer them this way. You should watch this video too. I tumbled puddingstones in just three days. kzbin.info/www/bejne/sJiqfHhuhd90g8k

[@tott3457]

Thank you. I’ve been studying different sites to learn what I would like to do! I really enjoy your videos ❣️🙏🏼❣️

[@dancrites453]

Might be my new favorite video of yours. Not that familiar with agates, but now would like to be. Your usual great job. Thank you...

[@MichiganRocks]

Makes me wonder what your old favorite was.

[@dancrites453]

@@MichiganRocks Hard to say as they are all very good. This one just kind of stands out... I have a question. When using a vibratory tumbler, can you use silicon carbide or aluminum oxide as long as the grit is the same? Thanks.

[@MichiganRocks]

@@dancrites453 I use silicon carbide for 220 and then switch to aluminum oxide at 500. I have always used aluminum oxide 500, but I have heard that some people use silicon carbide. Silicon carbide breaks down by actually breaking into smaller sharper pieces. Aluminum oxide rounds off and just keeps getting smaller, but is still rounded off, not sharp. For that reason aluminum oxide is better for polishing while silicon carbide is better for cutting. So to answer your question, I have never tried silicon carbide at 500. It might work fine, but I'm not going to switch to it.

[@dancrites453]

@@MichiganRocks Great explanation! Thanks. I will search for that aluminum oxide.

[@dancrites453]

@@MichiganRocks So I checked out the Rock Shed and they have the 500 & 1000 Aluminum Oxide. They indicate that you can you use the 1000 with "softer stones" in a rotary tumbler. That would lead me to the question of using 1000 with Petoskeys in a rotary tumbler. Have you done this and if so, what was the result? Would you use water in conjunction with 1000 A. O. in a rotary tumbler or just the A. O.? Thanks for your help.

[@lilalightandlove421]

Wowzer!!!! This was a super cool video! You make everything so interesting and cool! Love the explanations!Thoroughly enjoyed the before and after pics! Well done! Thank you Adam! You helped make this video awesome!

[@MichiganRocks]

Yes, thanks again, Adam!

[@marsharamsay2793]

Can't wait to see the little ones go thru the rotary tumbler. I'm with you that the outside should be completely smooth. It just makes the whole outcome better in my opinion but they are still amazing.

[@MichiganRocks]

I agree, but it was fun seeing them this way too.

[@theresatrahan7247]

I think they are all my favorites beautiful pieces. Glad you put videos out so we can enjoy them with you.

[@MichiganRocks]

I'm glad you enjoy them with me or there wouldn't be any point in putting them out!

[@theresatrahan7247]

My Grandsons collection is growing and we made him a shelf to display some of his I’m thinking of printing a few of my favorite pictures to put around his shelf. He was even gifted a piece of petrified wood from his great uncle he is so proud of his little collection .

[@MichiganRocks]

@@theresatrahan7247 That's fun to encourage a kid's wholesome interest, isn't it. It also makes it really easy to buy birthday and Christmas gifts. You can get some pretty cool rocks for not that much money if you're just buying a couple small samples.

[@kristiejacobs4854]

OMG! They are ALL gorgeous, but that one you cut is BREATHTAKING 😍

[@MichiganRocks]

There were a couple that I cut that I really liked a lot. I think some of my favorites were the smaller ones though.

[@deniseview4253]

My first thought was why cut them! Then when I seen them after you cut them? It’s an oh wow! Beautiful. Yes, can’t pick out a favorite. Thanks for sharing.

[@MichiganRocks]

I was very careful to only cut the ones that weren't showing much pattern. Most of them had some pretty good stuff inside.

[@chuckles7524]

Beautiful. Thanks for the time invested video. Love the slide show. I like the rocks in their organic shapes but can understand the 'smooth' appeal. Would love to see a three photo slide show in the future❤. Thanks for sharing.

[@MichiganRocks]

That's what I have planned, before, after, and more after.

[@juliesnider7556]

Wonderful video. Agates always get your heart pumping. Congrats on the Amethyst! We've found Amethyst veins in limestone recently. So check those boring limestone on your adventures.

[@MichiganRocks]

I have never heard of amethyst being found in this area, although we have limestone galore. But I didn't know that amethyst could even be found in limestone, so thanks for that information. It's always fun to learn something new.

[@juliesnider7556]

Have to admit, never thought limestone was high on list...boring. We were just as surprised by Amethyst. We've found crystal pockets many times. Possible reason is iron compound determining the difference between crystal and amethyst?

[@marsharamsay2793]

Hi This is a unbelievable tumble. You out did yourself on this one. I'm speechless at how you make them look so amazing. I hope to find some of them one day.

[@MichiganRocks]

I have found a few, but only a couple even close to as good as these.

[@Justfollowthecrumbs]

They are awesome, that banding, wow what depth they have!

[@MichiganRocks]

I agree, they are awesome.

[@7rays]

If you get more of the large sized Lake superior agate, you might want to consider working them with a diamond saw and the polishing wheels as you would a cabochon. I’ve done that in the past and it’s yielded some really excellent results

[@MichiganRocks]

Like this? kzbin.info/www/bejne/pWjGaoRqpq-grNk

[@Rocktwister]

Love the B4/after shots! Great job!

[@MichiganRocks]

Don't get too used to the before and after pictures, that took a ton of time. I will take more after pictures after I re-tumble these though.

[@Rocktwister]

@@MichiganRocks I imagine it did! I think I can live without it lol

[@moonstruck581]

Incredible beauty and such variety with all your Lake Superior Agates. I thought before and after shots were mesmerizing. Now as I look at my pea size Agates I am wondering whether to throw them into the tumbler, and just see what happens. I bought some backup rough Agate in case I couldn’t find any Agates at all, and think I will toss some of those mixed Agate slices in for grins. Such an awesome video!

[@MichiganRocks]

I can't seem to tumble my own agate finds which are smaller and less impressive than these. Maybe some day, but for now, they're just the way I found them.

[@moonstruck581]

I guess it is all about the adventure of finding your own treasures that counts.

[@waynemathews8859]

Beautiful rocks and they look amazing

[@MichiganRocks]

God makes some great stuff, just shined 'em up.

[@amandabutler9322]

You're videos are awesome, thanks for sharing your Hard work, happy hounding my fellow Michigander😎

[@MichiganRocks]

Thank you, Amanda!

[@Smallathe]

Beautiful rocks and really nice work on these. Loved the quartz ones... but I'm a long time quartz lover (and so is my wife)... :) Thanks for sharing!

[@MichiganRocks]

It's funny how many people love the quartz. I think for Lake Superior Agate collectors, that's usually considered to be undesirable. I prefer pure agate, but I do see the appeal of the quartz, especially when the quartz is amethyst. That one was much better because of the quartz, in my opinion.

[@Smallathe]

@@MichiganRocks I loved the amethyst too... really lovely!

[@paulcarder8032]

Beautiful! I've cut and sliced some LS agate nodules that looked pretty drab, but when cut, revealed some stunning figures. I can hardly wait to see what the rotary does!

[@MichiganRocks]

I'm excited too. I just hope I don't grind them away to nothing.

[@deanaleonard1647]

Awesome agates! Great job!!

[@MichiganRocks]

Thanks!

[@morgand7869]

That amethyst one though 😍😍😍

[@MichiganRocks]

I know, I love that one.

[@kirtikumarjain2965]

What is the cost of each polished agate

[@Nikkisavage100]

Fantastic video, thanks for these beautiful stones, i will dream about it !

[@higherlearnings1272]

I really enjoyed the before and after comparison shots!

[@MichiganRocks]

Don't get used to them. That took a ton of time.

[@pearlanderson1913]

🐞I liked the group of larger rocks better. Thanks. 🐞

[@yodez3]

Fantastic! I was hoping you would show the before and after. That must have been a bit of work. I certainly appreciate it.

[@MichiganRocks]

It was a lot of work, so don't get too used to it. Obviously, I can't go back and show old batches of rocks this way since I didn't take before pictures in most cases. Even though this took a lot of time, I'm really happy with the way it turned out.

[@gregprince2523]

Rob, how about a picture of the tub before going into the tumbler and then again after finished put them all on a towel to show the transformation..... Excellent work and skill my friend! can't wait to see some of your larger rocks. Keep on keepin on!

[@MichiganRocks]

I'm not sure what you're asking for with the before and after pictures. I did take pictures of every individual rock in the same position before and after.

[@gregprince2523]

@@MichiganRocks the single pics were awesome,,, just thinking a group of them before tumbler and then the whole group finished rocks. To show how they are downsized but oh such a work of beauty.

[@MichiganRocks]

@@gregprince2523 Oh, ok, you wanted a group shot. Got it.

[@andreareeder1030]

The one with the window! So pretty

[@Kj-ec7iz]

Incredible video. Thank you. They all are a favorite for different reasons.

[@NurseMickiLea]

Love 18:55 so awesome and love the deep Vug makes me want to crawl inside. Agates are such amazing creations!

[@MichiganRocks]

I'm not a fan of those particular bugs, but I do like a more open, druzy vug.

[@mikeysminerals7732]

I hope one day I get good enough at tumbling to where people are willing to GIVE me beautiful stones like that! might just be jealousy though. Still a wonderful watch. Cant wait to get back up to Michigan to search!

[@MichiganRocks]

I have had several people offer to send me rocks. I have said no to most of them because my basement is full enough as it is. When I get my unpolished rocks whittled down a bit more I might start accepting some of those offers.

[@twiliteside]

Always a treat to see your presentation! Please keep it up

[@MichiganRocks]

I'll do what I can. I don't have plans to stop anytime soon.

[@maryatteberry8796]

Amazing job!! What a BEAUTIFUL collection of rocks..

[@MichiganRocks]

Thanks!

[@thinkcivil1627]

Instead of tumbling, especially with Superior agates, with the right agate, you can process the agate so that it is bright and shinny, but it still has the "wild", or natural, look. I still tumble, but the nice agates (like the red bander on the main page) can have a rugged, natural beauty that adds to the display. It starts with the condition of the agate. With some finds don't be afraid to use your LAP to expose more bands, get rid of areas that are in rough condition, or remove husk if it means exposing more bands in a pattern. For people without a LAP, don't worry because it isn't necessary. You start by cleaning and rinsing the agate. Next, depending on staining, you can soak your agates in a cleaning solution that will open it up. If it has rust stains (common with a Superior agate due to the high iron content in the water) soak it in a solution of Iron Out. Other agates respond well to cleaning vinegar. Use cleaning vinegar, because it has a higher acid content than regular vinegar. The vinegar will clean the agate and even clear away minerals that are not chalcedony. With some agates a solution of water and Dawn dishwashing soap is all that's needed, but remember to rinse well. Check your rocks about twice a day, depending on the solution it's soaking in. Iron Out and cleaning vinegar usually require shorter soaking times. You will see the colors expose and brighten. Remove them from the solution and rinse well. With I O, or vinegar, after removing the agate from the solution, use a toothbrush and scrub the agate well with Dawn using warm water. Rinse thoroughly and let the agate(s) dry on paper towels. When it dries, you often notice that some agate appear very dry looking. Next, soak them in mineral oil for a couple of days, or longer. This will "rehydrate" the agate and condition it with a natural looking shine. Some agates only require rubbing the mineral oil on it with a paper towel. When you take them out of the mineral oil, lay them on paper towels. After a day or 2, rub the remaining oil off. If it appears dry, either soak it again, or simply rub more oil into the agate with paper towels that have oil on it. After a while you'll know which solution to use and how long to soak. The end result is an agate that looks like you just picked it out of the water and it keeps the natural look of an agate. You'll also get good at knowing which agates to soak and those better suited for the tumbler. Most of my larger agates are finished using the soaking method and a lot of collectors prefer buying agates that have not had extensive LAP work, or tumbled. Use containers that have a secure cover, to prevent spilling and to keep odors out of the room. Quart canning jars work well for smaller agates and I have a variety of plastic containers with covers for the larger finds. Again, check the rocks you are soaking regularly, especially when you first try this method. I still tumble, but some agates look nice when you process them this way and you leave them with a rugged, wild look. You might have to lightly rub oil on some agates a couple times a year (some more often and some less). This is just a suggestion and how you prepare your agates is a matter of personal taste. I've been picking for over 35 years (mostly Lake Superior agates) and there are quite a few agates in my collection that are basically as I found them. Just cleaned. There are also quite a few that have been tumbled, or polished on a LAP (cab maker).

[@MichiganRocks]

Wow, thanks for the extensive information. I have heard much of this before, but have not tried much of it because I have found so few agates. The ones I find are also usually very small. I tumbled these because that's what Adam sent them to me for. He didn't have a tumbler, and thought I'd do a good job with them. Hopefully he isn't disappointed!

[@thinkcivil1627]

@@MichiganRocks You are one of the best tumblers I've ever seen. Your LAP work is first rate as well. Thanks for all the good tips. I'm using my trim saw more after watching one of your videos last year.

[@MichiganRocks]

@@thinkcivil1627 I use my trim saw as a grinder almost as much as I use it as a saw.

[@thinkcivil1627]

@@MichiganRocks That's exactly what I picked up on.

[@thinkcivil1627]

Careful about using this method on other minerals. Agates are very hard and these solutions clean the chalcedony by slowly dissolving the dirt and other minerals off from it. However, you can damage other rocks if you leave them in the solution too long. Including jasper. Only soak other minerals with the same hardness as agates.

[@rhondajules7647]

Love the slide showThank you for sharing 👍

[@MichiganRocks]

You're welcome!

[@milesnn]

Awesome great knowledge beautiful outcome wow thank you

[@MichiganRocks]

Thanks!

[@earlraff9162]

Some cool stones.

[@Cherrymount5872]

Great video, the Amethyst Agate is just magnificent and definitely my favourite of the whole lot.

[@MichiganRocks]

Yep, I like that one a lot.

[@elenabarantcheeva1971]

Cool. Thanks for video. Would love to see them at the final stage.

[@MichiganRocks]

You will, but we will all have to wait for a while.

[@bjlmc13]

Those are Beautiful !!! I would love for you to polish rocks for my family!!! I like leaving some of the pits in mine though it gives character.

[@MichiganRocks]

Leaving the pits in makes it a lot easier, so it's nice that you like them that way.

[@CityRockhounding]

These turned out amazing. So beautiful! I am always impressed more and more.

[@icatz]

Really beautiful agates. Some of those cuts are amazing. I like the solid nodules with quartz. If you'd like some Saddle Mountain chalcedony/agate, let me know. I have a lot. TFS

[@MichiganRocks]

At some point, I might take you up on that, but for now, I have plenty of rocks to keep me busy. My wife bought me a few pounds of rocks for my birthday in March. I haven't done a thing with them except rinse them off. I've been working to tumble some very old material that has been in my cupboards for years. I'd like to make a dent in that before starting on new stuff. Lake Superior agate is an obvious gap in my collect that I'm sort of embarrassed about, so I gladly accepted Adam's offer. I've had a few others that I've turned down, at least for now. I really appreciate the offer though.

[@icatz]

@@MichiganRocks Why be embarrassed? Not every area has the same minerals, stresses, temps, etc. that make agates. Some places differ wildly just a few miles apart.

[@MichiganRocks]

@@icatz I have found a few, that's not what I was embarrassed about. I was embarrassed that I have bought rocks from all over the world and never bought some of the best rocks that can be found in Michigan. It seems like and obvious rock to have in my collection.

[@merlinjones6485]

I like the before and after shots. Just like people, even stones look better when they lose a little weight. To bad they don't have rock tumblers big enough for people. I could use a few tumbles.

[@MichiganRocks]

I liked them a lot before tumbling too. I'm not sure which I like better. I'm looking forward to seeing them after rotary tumbling.

[@jessicadavenport2808]

Definitely have a new subscriber! Beautiful pieces!

[@MichiganRocks]

Welcome aboard!

[@LindaSmith-vq1br]

Some of the ones with lots of quqrtz look like totally filled in geodes. Interesting banding. Love the amethyst, it is my birthstone.

[@MichiganRocks]

I really didn't notice the amethyst until I tumbled it. I don't know how I missed it before, I put have been blind.

[@orangepinkgarden]

Great job. Super cool.

[@MichiganRocks]

Thanks.

[@lightweight777]

I do love the close ups! It’s like I’m getting a hands on in 1080 great stuff. :)

[@MichiganRocks]

I'm glad you're enjoying it!

[@dollywalker3929]

So beautiful, what a cool gift,. Ty for sharing,☺️

[@MichiganRocks]

I know, I couldn't believe it.

[@timcarver5492]

Very interesting, nice rocks. Nice cutting as well. Now I'm looking forward to seeing them after the rotary treatment. I have 6 rotary barrels going but have not yet purchase a vibratory tumbler. It seems like it would save a lot of time and grit.

[@MichiganRocks]

I bought my Lot-O before my first batch of rocks was done in my Lortone 33B.