Using Power Tools to Cut and Polish Rocks

[@kevinnix6531]

hi rookie, it may allready in your comments here somewhere, - only use your tin oxide polishing powder on rocks with a smooth surface, not ones with too much pitting, or natural cavities - remove your white powder residue with a medium toothbrush and soapy water, (you wont damage the polished surface, its too hard) - only use velcro attached felt pads for your tin oxide polishing, turn your sander speed down to the lowest speed. - consider getting a bench grinder, and fitting a stitched sisal wheel for it, it is also great for final polishing, buff the polished surfaces until warm, allmost hot cheers, kev

[@Rookie_Rockounding]

Mate thank you Kev! Seriously, it’s cause of you I took this step in rock polishing, and of course, made this video, and I really am grateful and value your help. You’re a legend dude, just mega thank you!

[@kevinnix6531]

Rookie Rockhounding if you havent allready - search for the velcro attached felt pads on ebay, they are relatively cheap you can use them with your polishing powder, or, dry without powder just a little water with a little polishing powder, just enough to make a paste. kev

[@Rookie_Rockounding]

Kevin Nix oh gosh no, I didn’t know they made them. Man thanks dude! I’ll jump in that for sure. 👌👍

[@uberNerdStatus]

Just learned a lot, thanks Kevin!

[@melissawhite210]

I love these rocks you've done, keeping so much of the natural, organic look and just polishing some facets. I have a wet polisher like what you have and have rigged it into a flat lap of sorts, using those metal diamond discs in different grits. I made a jig for mine and it sits upside down inside a plastic crate that catches the water I spray onto the lap while I'm working, and also the rocks that can go flying. I took the guard off my wet polisher and use an 8" disc so I have plenty of surface area. I have zero idea how fast my machine is spinning, but it works so I'll take it. I'm learning as I go and using a tile saw to cut. It would maybe be nice to have a straight up pro lapidary machine shop I guess, but there is something very satisfying about figuring this stuff out without throwing a ton of money at it. All this experimenting makes life interesting. I mean, anyone can do this stuff more easily if they throw money at the hobby and buy the high falutin' machines. I'm kind of happy with what I have for now. Keep up the interesting work.

[@SapphireMoon962]

I love how you leave a portion of the rock raw. Best of both worlds.

[@Rookie_Rockounding]

Ah that’s cool, that’s exactly why I do it 😉 it’s always good to see the comparison to appreciate the polish. 😉😉😉

[@MD-nv9dt]

I loved that too

[@finefinefineverygood]

You are an artist brother. I subscribed. I told my girlfriend..."man, I wanna play with rocks with that guy..." ; she said, "I know you do babe" as she kept knitting a pair of winter socks. We live in the desert in Arizona. Anyway...I respect your cutting and polishing style which I find unique and pretty expert for a "rookie".

[@Rookie_Rockounding]

Oh man, seriously Aidfine, even just reading your message made me wish I could cut rocks with you dude! Nothing like sharing the rock fun times with another rock fanatic 🤪 Man knitting and playing with rocks, you both are livin your best life and I love that! Much love to both of you mate!

[@lmmillette1]

Wow great way to do it!! I still think you should sell some of your finds to us fans! What a treat that would be~getting an austrialian stone!! Then we can post pics back to you after we cut and polish and finish💕💕. Extra money for you to pay for all your equipment and travels!!

[@Rookie_Rockounding]

Heyyyyyy! Oh I would love to but I’d feel bad making people pay for them. I have to send a few packages to people who have already sent me some so I think once I do that, I’d like to maybe pick a comment from each video I do and send a rock to them. Like one each video or something. It’d be a cool way of saying thank you. But I love your idea! And it would be so cool to see what people do with them. Thank you for the great idea Lisa!!! Hopefully when I can get a bit more organised I can start doing that. Or even just selling them for the cost of shipping or something. 🤔

[@skywatcher6864]

I really love your humble attitude! You've done a great job on your rocks, and teaching ME how to do it! Thank you!

[@newyorkrockheads8995]

Brother just let me say how greatly you helped me.. When I got my tile saw for Christmas I looked you up and you helped me get started and. Ow I’ve been looking for a way to polish my finds on the cheap because I can’t afford a flat lap and all that right now.Everywhere I went they just weren’t explaining it plain enough until I got to you.You explained it easily and completely..Now I’m gonna get my equipment and start my polishing journey.I see this vid is a year old so you’re probably way more advanced than back then but I thank you for the help brother because we all have to start somewhere.Keep up the great videos and maybe one day we,Lloyd get to Rockhound together. Thanks again for all your help my Rockhound Brother.

[@Rookie_Rockounding]

Ohhhhhh brother this makes me happier than you know. Flat laps are absolutely the way to go, but they’re expensive and these are really useful. Two different types of polishing, but I really enjoy the process of doing it this way. I have to stress, because I care about your health, make sure you wear some ppe. Dust mask etc. The dust may be wet, but it will dry and we shouldn’t breath that in. I really hope you enjoy it too. A good album, or podcast for ear Candy and it ends up being a real cathartic way to find even more shiny goodness in the rocks. Love your work Lloyd, keep bein your rad self my man! I have another one I go a bit more in depth with so I’ll leave you a link in a second. Not spam, just incase you wanna see more about it. Much love my “finders” brother!

[@Rookie_Rockounding]

kzbin.info/www/bejne/m6DZZ4KNj8qDg6c I hope this helps mate 👍👍👍

[@geminicesdesigns9393]

You don't know how many times ive flipped rocks across the yard. I laughed so hard i almost cried when i saw that! One thing i like to do you might try just for fun, after cutting in half, cut one thin slice about 1/4 inch thick. They look so great when the sun shines through them.

[@Rookie_Rockounding]

Haha! 🤣😂🤣 awesome! Yeah I can’t wait to try and polish a slab.

[@darkcrystalmagik3369]

This was really informative and helpful and the rocks turned out great. I like watching a beginner too and this dude is funny. What a killer backyard!

[@gregniel]

I caught myself just smiling while you were sanding. . . . I love rocks.

[@Rookie_Rockounding]

Haha! That’s the best reaction I could ask for G 👍

[@keithtyson9512]

Keith from Nashville, Tennessee. You are doing great job. My Dad was a rock hound in Louisiana. I ended up with his six wheel diamond polisher and saws. It is therapy for sure. Beautiful rocks. He did all kinds of marketable stuff but I especially liked wind chimes from bits and pieces of thin slices of banded agate.

[@Rookie_Rockounding]

Thank you Keith, sorry to hear about your father, I imagine using his machine would feel like a bit of a connection to him. The wind chimes sounds like a great idea too. I’ll have to attempt that one day for sure. Happy hounding over there brother!

[@billycrystalscreations6966]

So today was my first day ever cutting a rock with a rock saw. I've used them for tile but as I soon found out today it is much different than cutting tile. So I decided to jump on KZbin and watch some videos and yours was the first one I clicked on and you gave me a great idea for what to do with The Rock that I was cutting on so thank you.

[@americanrebel413]

For someone that is just learning, you did an excellent job at polishing! Now, if I may suggest, You would have better control of your machine if you had it on the table, that being said, build a vice or jig using scrap wood, Build it with a base big enough to keep it from tipping over, you can start with a flat piece of plywood using metal or fabric straps, strap it to the plywood, (you can make it so you can take it off easy using screws) leave the trigger open so you can get to it, and don't forget about the button to keep it on without holding the trigger, If you don't have any straps you can use wood to built around the machine to hold it down, Also with a (C clamp) and 2 very thin but strong pieces of wood, like 1×2's about 1' long, you can hold your larger rocks easily, put 2 flat skinny 1"×2"×1' (1 inch by 2 inches by 1foot) pieces of wood in the (C clamp), position the stone in a spot (Somewhere between the end of the wood and the C clamp) where it will be wide enough, Tighten the C clamp and it will hold your rock without scratching it, If you have to, use small pieces of cloth between the wood and the stone. Remember always test everything before you actually use it on your good rocks. Sorry if that was a bit long but I tried my best to explain without pictures, and I hope I don't offend you with my suggestion. Awesome video man thank you.

[@americanrebel413]

Ps. One other thing, You can run your hose with a drip, drip of water to keep the pads wet, It will also keep the dust down and out of your lungs!

[@MarlainaAtkins]

Love the suggestion. I think I may try that! Just recently hurt my arm so I was trying to figure a way to still be able to work without hurting it further. This sounds like it'll do the trick! 😎👍

[@americanrebel413]

@@MarlainaAtkins thank you, You can tweak the design to fit what you need just be creative.👍✌

[@Rookie_Rockounding]

AMERICANREBEL ! Well hells bells that my friend is brilliant! Thank you man! Thank you so much for takin the time to explain that for me. I need to set up a little work bench in my massively unorganised shed and do this. You are a legend! Seriously I really really appreciate the help 😉👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍

[@americanrebel413]

@@Rookie_Rockounding 35 years of marble and stone work in houses kinda help's to, just take your time building it and don't expect to get it right the first time, oh yeah, a little patients help's to, LOL! Good luck with it and keep me posted on your progress, I will help you anyway I can. Do you have email and would that help if I give you my email?

[@alanhiatt4820]

Thanks for this video showing how you reveal the true beauty hidden in the rocks. Makes me want to go looking for pretty rocks too.

[@MichiganRocks]

Those look really good. Nice rocks with a nice polish. I think you’ve gotten some good advice about better things to try for that final polish. Honestly, I haven’t completely figured that out myself. I agree with all of those who told you that you need something with less fluff and a firmer backing. From what I’ve read, different polishes and different pads (leather, felt, denim, carpet, etc) work for different types of rock.

[@Rookie_Rockounding]

Michigan Rocks Hey dude, yeah there is so much good advice being shared. I’m so grateful. I’m gonna need to rig up some of the ideas to give it a try. I still need to buy a grinding cup before I make a start on the bigger ones. Slowly but surely I’ll get there. Oh and dude how rad was that jasper in your vid!!! Just woah 😳👌

[@MichiganRocks]

Rookie Rockhounding you’d need one heck of a cup grinder for that jasper.

[@mctron22rd]

Not bad, not bad at all! I think you have moved up a bracket! So, you are not a total rookie anymore! My husband bought me a ring with a good size, dark grapey purple amethyst stone and blue opal from Austrailia! Its got to be one of the most beautiful opals I have seen! I am hooked now! Opals are becoming one of my favorite gem stones besides Amethyst. Thank you for sharing your experience with us!

[@Rookie_Rockounding]

Oh that sounds beautiful! Yeah opal I reckon is my fav, just breathtaking 😻

[@shortshifter-ug4ov]

I am so happy to have stumbled upon your video. I have forever been obsessed with stones and rocks. It's wonderful to see someone else to share the same hobby...

[@GroovyGeologist]

Thank you for making this!! I had searched and searched for a video like this for weeks and yours is the most clear and concise. Also your voice is really soothing!

[@Rookie_Rockounding]

Oh that’s so good! Thank you!

[@SomeRandomName77]

Just found your channel. I am really enjoying your videos! Rocks are so amazing and beautiful. It's so fun watching your curiosity, joy, and amazing attitude. Not to mention the beautiful, beautiful rocks!

[@debraarb7652]

Thank you so much Rookie..I am the rookies of the rookies and after just watching a few of your videos I have learned and been inspired to get more equipment and really enjoy myself..rocks rock!

[@MD-np6en]

Mate, you've got to get yourself out west to Chinchilla (3.5 hrs west of Brissie) and pick up some of the petrified wood that is laying around all over the place out there. There's loads of stuff you can cut with your tile saw and the rocks have great color inside, great wood grain pattern and that take an awesome polish. You'd love it! Love your videos and your enthusiasm.

[@Rookie_Rockounding]

Hey MD! Thanks for the tip mate, I’ll have to let Benny know and we can plan a day trip out there! Sounds beautiful 👌

[@mray1255]

It is so wonderful to find that other people love the beauty of minerals. And, you are on the other side of the world. 😄. I’m doing the same thing here in Colorado. I use a wet hand held grinder because I like the ability to refine undulating surfaces that reflect the light in different directions and leave part of the stone untouched. I have an MK 101 saw coming that I can use as a drop saw and trim saw. So excited to discover more inner beauty of these minerals. Despite the American election craziness there are folks here who love life.

[@ro.samueldumdum6324]

Just great woek! Beautiful finish! I'm learning a lot! Thankbyou for this very helpful video! Keep shooting! 👍😍

[@denaoberski]

I busted out laughing so hard when that piece flew out of your hand. The look on your face was priceless. But hey, I got to give it to you. those are the most amazing looking rocks I have ever seen. Makes me want to run out and slice open every rock that i can find. It’s like treasure... but you don’t know what you get until you unwrap it

[@Rookie_Rockounding]

Hahaha! 🤣😂 yeah, I didn’t expect that to happen 😳🤨 haha! Thanks Dena 😉

[@BackcountrywithShaughn]

Ah brother, thank you for sharing the adventure! 👍That carnelian stand and the banded rhyolite with the agate plate topping are freaking sweet like candy~ You really did such a great job working those smaller pieces on the orbital sander, kudos my friend~ I had to laugh when the first day ran out, had the same realization the first time I worked through a couple specimen. 🤦‍♂️😂 Also, am glad i am not the only one who's been "grabbed" by a buffing wheel..Doh!😁 Heck, i've sent some 5m across the yard? haha My friend, think other's would agree that I just love your enthusiasm and really hope you enjoyed the process as much as I do! For me...Headphones with cool tunes, nice refreshing drink, warm sunshine and beautiful mother earth just waiting to expose her magic bits for each of us to see! And the cleanup is just the icing on the cake! Thanks again for bringing us fun, entertaining, informative videos sir, hope you have a super weekend ahead~

[@Rookie_Rockounding]

Backcountry with Shaughn Heyyyy mate! I’m so glad you liked them dude! Oh funny thing, I actually edited it out because it went too long, but I had headphones on listening to music, and BOOM! The machine grabbed them 😳 had to get a new pair of pants pretty much haha! Note to self: tuck everything in. Everything! Haha! Man I loved the beauties you polished! They were huge and shiny and full of just gorgeous stuff that you could look at for days and never get bored! Love your work man👍 I popped the vid in my “other peoples rad rock videos” playlist to share it round. As with all your others as well haha 👍 Have a great weekend my friend!

[@BackcountrywithShaughn]

@@Rookie_Rockounding That's freaking brilliant funny my friend~ haha I bet I would've left some stains myself. 🤦‍♂️Always an adventure for sure! Thanks again for the nice comment and support as always. The benefits of living close to such sources I guess~ 🤷‍♂️😎 Was watching your video again and realized that I've never made a majestic carnelian TOWER such as your tasty marvel and now have agate envy! 😜🌶 But you've given me some great directions idea wise (inspiration is what they call it I think?) of what to do with some of the larger chunks of chalcedony/banded/waterline agates! I'll be an obelisk making fiend and have you to thank for the inspiration! 👀 Lot's of sphere's, obelisks, slabs and cabs to you my rockhounding KZbinr friend! Enjoy your weekend~

[@BackupSix76066]

Wow, the orange-red chalcedony one is absolutely breathtaking lol, can't wait to see more of you going out and finding more of those beautiful pieces!

[@Rookie_Rockounding]

Backup67601 66 Thanks backup 👍 Hope to be heading out soon 😉 I can’t wait myself to be honest haha! Have a good one 😉

[@BackupSix76066]

@@Rookie_Rockounding that's great to hear, at least someone is getting out there lol. Can't wait to see your next video, if not for the rocks, it'll be your golden personality! Take care and good luck man

[@joehurly4687]

A great way to polish the flats is to secure a piece of cut denim to a block, spray the denim with water and put the tin oxide or other polish on the wet denim. Then, just rub the flat surface of the stone on the flat surface of the wet denim until you get the polish you want. "michiganrocks" did it with a Petoskey stone in one of his youtube videos. Also, when cleaning the nooks and crannies of rocks, like you're doing at 7:26, a waterpick is very helpful, if a bit messy. Another great video.

[@Rookie_Rockounding]

Joe Hurly Hey joe! Thank you so much for the help! Really appreciate it 🙏😉 Yeah “Michigan rocks” rocks 😁

[@rawdawgpendants5490]

The bold push the boundaries and explore new ways. All the curves and all the edges, all the perfect imperfections 🎶

[@Rookie_Rockounding]

Man, that’s a rad comment, thank you my rock brethren!

[@rawdawgpendants5490]

Rookie Rockhounding thank you for the inspiration.

[@Unclesmokey314]

I have been rockhounding in the creek down the street from me for a bit now... TONS of Mozarkite, various colors of chert ( the gun metal blue and deep grey are a sight raw) and several other native rocks to St.Louis area. this is exactly what I was seeing in my head for here at home to kill some free time and who knows... I want to fashion a jig to hold both a d/a and v.s. sander/buffer and seal it with fiberglass resin. great video. honestly my first on this hobby. sure it won't be the last.

[@jkxtc2016]

Wow really nice ....I Love rockhounding....and now watching how easy I see to make them look so awesome am gonna start doing my own .....Thanks for making this video...really really nice .

[@Rookie_Rockounding]

Thanks mate! Yeah it’s so fun making them shiny. It does take a couple hours but it’s pretty satisfying 😉

[@teperikaetr]

Nice. You gave me some ideas on how to polish and cut my stones without those expensive machines. Thank you.

[@Rookie_Rockounding]

Erika Tep Ruiz Haha! Yeah, it can be done 😊

[@dianajusselin3298]

You did a pretty good job showing us the minerals you are going cut and polish. You have a humble opinion on being a rookie. You also have a sweet disposition which carries in your video. Thank you for your video. God Bless.

[@Rookie_Rockounding]

Thank you so much Diana, what a beautiful comment.

[@akoski12]

I have already been watching Kevin nix for a bit now.

[@Rookie_Rockounding]

Yeah he’s a good dude, and a master at this stuff.

[@kayleestiltner792]

Just found your channel and have spent a solid few hours binging your videos. I'm a fellow rookie all the way over in Washington State, USA, and I was delighted to see you finding almost exactly the rocks I also hunt for, only replace the rhyolite (not as common here) with petrified wood (very common). I grew up next to a coastal lowland valley creek filled with jasper of all kinds and colors as well as massive hunks of white to carnelian chalcedony (and agates), veins of blue and green chalcedony, and beautiful chunks of sediment sea fossils. I even found a confirmed mammalian coprolite! Just wanted to say thanks for the tips and inspiration - as a full time stay at home mom and nanny I don't get as much time to hound anymore but you've reignited my fever and I'll be out this week chasing my own chalcedony dreams.

[@Rookie_Rockounding]

Thank you so much for your awesome comment Kaylee, that makes me so happy you’re inspired to get back out there. So cool! Thanks for sharing 😁 and super happy hounding 👌👍😉

[@marynovich2180]

Me and my husband just got into rock hounding. We're both in our mid and late 50s. Thrown into retirement because of our health. We are ready to take our childhood fascination with rocks to the next level. If you ever want to trade different rocks with people let us know. We're in Nebraska and travel to our cabin in the lower center of nebraska. There's so much to search there. We have the ashfall fossil bed not to far and I have a buddy that would let us stay at his cabin and hunt there he's found such neat stuff just working close by. I can imagine what we could find in the natural creek, springs and the pond that runs through the property.

[@nikitovitch5113]

Am writing this comment before even seeing the video i bet i will get jealous and stuff and then go to my mancave and start working on my gemstones 😂👌🏻 After watching the video all i can say my man am so proud of u keep up the good work and have an amazing weekend ❤️😇 love how they ended up looking 😍😍

[@Rookie_Rockounding]

Nikito Vitch Oh thank you so much Nikito, that’s really cool mate

[@epicrunscapetime]

Where theres a will theres a way... This video proves you dont need fancy $3000 machines to polish a rock. Wonderful video, I would replace the cotton polishing wheel with soft leather, take a 1/4 teaspoon of polish and mix it with water until you get a slurry and apply that to the soft leather. soft as in the inside of a belt. Also dont worry about the rock slipping out of your hands during polish, it happens to all of us ;).

[@Rookie_Rockounding]

rsiku Hey Rsiku mate! I love your comment. It’s true, making do with what you can get your hands on. And thank you for the advice! Super appreciate it mate! So much!

[@sarejen6868]

OH WOW! They turned out beautifully! Learning how to do it is some fun as you don't have bad habits yet and open to ideas. Nice job ty for sharing and teaching .

[@Rookie_Rockounding]

Hey Sare, yeah it’s seriously so much fun. I love the relaxation of it. With headphones of course 😂

[@tekoumajenny]

Thanks for sharing, really enjoyed seeing what's possible for the home enthusiast!

[@ginalanning5303]

Dude welcome to the next step in Pour Addiction! Hahaha. Once you see them polished you're hooked for life! I absolutely love this assortment of specimens! They are breathing! I agree with trying rogue compound. It comes in red or green according to I think types of material. I know you can order from Ebay. But great job bro. The banded rhyolite w/carnelian is spectacular! I'm a jealous girl. But I've just cut some Chrysocolla I brought back from Arizona. It's so beautiful. Thanks again for sharing. And the links. You're the best bro!

[@spectrumofcreation5679]

So so so true. It's relaxing and exciting all in the same hobby!!! I love it

[@Rookie_Rockounding]

gina lanning Heyyyyyy G! Haha yeah the addiction has taken on another form 🤣 it was so relaxing doing this. I can’t wait to do more! Which one was your fav? I haven’t forgotten the package. 😉

[@ginalanning5303]

@@Rookie_Rockounding I really loved them all. Anything with strange patterns. I just love any of the rhyolite blends. Looking forward to the next installment.

[@lizzymoore54]

Mav, what a beautiful mirror finish! Great job!!! 😊

[@Rookie_Rockounding]

lizzymoore54 Hey Lizzy! Thank you 😊😊😊👍👍👍

[@linabaliashvili2495]

Just subscribed. Thank you so much for shearing! Warm hugs from Portland Oregon...

[@Rookie_Rockounding]

Thank you Lina, and the same to you from Australia 😉😁

[@NurseMickiLea]

Awesome job for your first try. My heart sank when they went flying off the polisher, glad they made it!♥️

[@Rookie_Rockounding]

Petersen Haha yeah, so did mine😳😳😳 🤣 So glad they were still okay 😉

[@michaelames6317]

Well done Sir! You're Inspiring Rookie, keep up these Top Shelf videos!

[@mikecampbell9249]

Hey it's the hobby, this is how we learn and great job bye the way you have some unique stones down there! Very cool

[@Rookie_Rockounding]

Thank you Mike 👍😁

[@mikecampbell9249]

@@Rookie_Rockounding hey your very welcome ! I too collect a few rocks here and there myself so far just a few! And one gem stone a citrine! Maybe next spring there will be more!

[@kimdower8149]

Love your channel. It's refreshing to see your honesty and I love your voice. I'm just beginning to learn myself. Keep on Rockin my friend!

[@Rookie_Rockounding]

Thank you Kim! Good luck and happy collecting 😁

[@Thequietfossicker]

Good old Kevin, he’s a fountain of knowledge that man! Bought a few pieces off him to play with/keep.

[@Rookie_Rockounding]

Yeah he’s a rock wizard I reckon 😉👍

[@roxannsejkora1691]

AWESOME job mate! You brought out ALOT of the natural beauty in those rocks! Keep on doing what you're doing!

[@Rookie_Rockounding]

Thank you Roxann!!!! 😊

[@dawnbrown9898]

You did a great job!!! I love how they turned out.

[@betojdesigns]

Yay! A new video 👏 Love the way they turned out, your patience with all the different steps certainly paid off. Someone will be sporting the most ‘Fabulous’ specimens in their rock cabinet. Now I will have to patiently wait the two weeks to see what you do next. 🙃

[@Rookie_Rockounding]

betojdesigns Haha! I know right, the two weeks takes forever but I’d run out of things to show I reckon 😂 Might try and pop a sneaky mid-fortnight little mailtime vid up this week. Maybe. See how the edits go 🤞

[@ezenavarro817]

Dude you are amazing and so humble those are beautiful. You just lit me up and filled me with a desire to do this. God bless and I look forward to more of your videos!!! 😁💙

[@EDLaw-wo5it]

KOOOOOL Mate! I have been hand polishing on a flat surface with wet-dry sandpaper. The sander would sure be quicker but I am getting good results. I even found some 12,000 grit sandpaper. Keep teaching. Havagudun mate!

[@Rookie_Rockounding]

E. D. Law Yeah I used that for mine a while ago before doing these videos but I had carpel tunnel in both wrists so I couldn’t do it very long. I have to be careful with them from now on after surgery. But yeah, I used to love doing that. It’s relaxing. Have a great weekend mate!!!

[@BasicMillennialMom]

These turned out beautifully!! Amazing job! I found your channel just a few days ago and I've been watching every day -- I've got Generalized Anxiety Disorder and your videos are so soothing. Your voice is so charming! They've also inspired me to go back to rock collecting in my own area (southern California) and I've already scouted and planned a great spot near a gem mine (public land, though). I can't wait to go explore! Thanks for your inspiring videos!

[@Rookie_Rockounding]

Thank you Melisa! Thank you for sharing your story and I’m so glad you’re able to get some relaxation to help with the Anxiety Disorder. That really makes me happy. I wish you all the best and will see you round 😁👍

[@kristynorth3418]

What a great personality. Just a fun journey watching the stages and seeing the beauty come out in the stones. Great video. That gets a sub for sure

[@Rookie_Rockounding]

Hey thank you Kristy! I’m so glad you enjoyed the video and hope you like the many more to come 😁👍

[@davidmiddlebrooks929]

Very nice sir! I really like how you beveled the corners, look classy.

[@Rookie_Rockounding]

David Middlebrooks Hey thanks mate, I like that, “looks classy” 😉

[@MACorrupt]

This video never gets old. Ramping up the learning getting ready to dive in!💜🌈👊🏼🧻😷🤣

[@Rookie_Rockounding]

Ha! That’s awesome! Sorry I’m so late at the replies lately, catching up now 🤦‍♂️😆 I hope you’re doing well over there mate. And happy polishing!!!

[@travisguide4516]

this video was awesome! You really blew me away with the beautiful pieces you created they are very artistic chunky and shiny really dig your style

[@Rookie_Rockounding]

Travs Guide Heyyy dude thank you Trav, that’s so cool to hear man. Thanks old school homey

[@yahuhananbenyamineliyahu7706]

Thank you so much, i found interest in working Stones recently, while your guide is such a helper. Bless you

[@CityRockhounding]

Love your grinder and all the really nice looking disk. Really cool process, I was going to ask to see this process, so I'm glad you shared it. These turned out beautiful!

[@DarthStardom]

Your videos make me so relaxed and content. Best channel ever. Thanks for everything man 🙏🏼 keep it up

[@Rookie_Rockounding]

Victoria Petras Oh Victoria thank you so much! That really makes me happy 😁👍

[@markruffner9143]

A lot of work Jesse and great results. I am loving your collection!

[@Rookie_Rockounding]

Thank you Mark 😊👍

[@milesnn]

Oh your getting good wow some stunning pieces you got fantastic job awesome I seen a guy he glued a piece of short carpet onto a disc to polish with he also just had some wooden blocks screwed on to plywood just to set his grinder in to free both his hands all I can say awesome job 👍🏻

[@Rookie_Rockounding]

milesnn Thank you miles!! Great advice, thank you heaps!!!! Have a good one 👍😉

[@shawnmann]

I'm inspired. I've done a lot of collecting, no cutting or polishing yet.

[@Rookie_Rockounding]

Cheers brother 👍👍👍

[@BackYardGardeningTip]

Amazing how a rock can go from being okay to stunning with a little elbow grease. I have to get a grinder and disc so I can do that. Thanks for the video.

[@spectrumofcreation5679]

Some of the big yard boulders can look super cool polished!!

[@BackYardGardeningTip]

@@spectrumofcreation5679 I'm still working on the little rocks and stones I can fit in my backpack. I have carried some large chunks of petrified wood home. Putting a 10 pound chunk in my backpack sure limits the number of rocks I can carry. HaHa

[@spectrumofcreation5679]

Yeah it does. I am lucky I have my kids addicted to hounding😁😁 They help alot

[@BackYardGardeningTip]

@@spectrumofcreation5679 One of my granddaughters is just 3. She picks up stones for me.

[@cleft_3000]

So beautiful! The amazing things that come out of the ground 😍

[@kevinnix6531]

good job rookie, looks like this technique has opened up a whole new world for you ! 👍

[@Rookie_Rockounding]

Thanks Kev, massively thank you for your knowledge sharing too mate. Popped a link to your channel in the description too.

[@Grandmasrockin]

This was so informative!!! I’m going to buy a grinder and try your method. Thank you very much!!!!

[@elizabethduckworth3824]

Seriously love it. Currently on the hunt for rock cutting tools, my bf and I are huge rockhounders! So ready to start cutting, I’m so excited!

[@Rookie_Rockounding]

Yesssss! All the best and have a blast Elizabeth!

[@Thequietfossicker]

Nice job! They look awesome.

[@Rookie_Rockounding]

Thank you Tam Tam

[@GloriaNTamez]

You did a great job... love the rocks!!!

[@zwolfie4298]

Nice work for the first time. I’m impressed at the shiny bits, and want to get a collection of my own to follow in your foot steps.

[@Rookie_Rockounding]

Zwolfie 42 Thank you Zwolfie 😉👍

[@cleft_3000]

I love the approach you take to your videos. humble, educating and, judging by the comments & my own experience, super inspiring too! Thank you 🌻

[@Rookie_Rockounding]

Thank you rah rah, you are too kind 😊

[@cookiekitty8122]

Again spectacular. Cutting,polishing on a budget. Try a felt pad for final polish. Thank you.

[@Rookie_Rockounding]

Thank you cookie kitty! I’m gonna give that a try and even try a suede pad possibly 😉👍

[@ridgerunner66]

Those were absolutely amazing. Such beautiful pieces. Loved the colors and the variations in the banding. Great job. Looking forward to the next video. Thanks for sharing. Davin

[@Rookie_Rockounding]

Davin Kates Thanks davin mate! Have a brilliant weekend 😉👍

[@torilynne647]

These turned out awesome 😍

[@Rookie_Rockounding]

Tori Lynne Thanks Tori 😁👍

[@nancythompson8735]

Awesome job!! Beauties for sure especially the carnelian agate !! Would love to go hounding with you and Benny

[@Rookie_Rockounding]

Nancy Thompson thank you Nancy 😉👍

[@rebeccaofsunnybrookefarm8469]

Awesome job. Thanks for sharing your journey with us.

[@Rookie_Rockounding]

Thank you, I love having you all along for the ride. 👍

[@rebeccaofsunnybrookefarm8469]

@@Rookie_Rockounding , your welcome... I learn more about stones from watching your channel, meMiner and Quest for Details... and I'm intrigued by addicted to Rocks..

[@TheOldladyB]

You did an awesome job. Well done.

[@edtherockhound9944]

Hey man back to this oldie but goodie again I just ordered the pads for my grinder and I have the saw . I also use a Dremel tool with the flex shaft and bought me nova polishing points with the cerium oxide powder . I use the Dremel on small stuff or hard to get to areas and the pads I’ll use on the bigger rocks etc . Such a fun hobbie and I have the next 3 months off and last year was tough man worked hurt and it SUCKED bad need to rehab my old ass up .take care n be safe

[@debbiemitchell6055]

Oh I love this, I have always thought there was a secret to polishing rocks with out tumbling and often wondered what people used! Thought polishing Compunds for sure, they all turned out beautiful!

[@Rookie_Rockounding]

It’s such a great way to relax 😉

[@tracerammo]

Dude, this is amazing. I've definitely subscribed! You're a fun guy to listen to and this video is perfect for me, where I am in my rockhounding quest. Thanks, man! Invaluable!

[@Rookie_Rockounding]

Hey thank you so much mate! I hope the videos are helpful bud. Now with this machine it’s super good, but there’s other options as well. Like flat laps etc. I know a lot of people transition pretty quickly from this method to a flat lap. It might cost a bit more but could make for better results. For bigger rocks though, this is a great method. Even for smaller ones. I’m still using it after 3 years 🤪 all the best and let me know if you hav want questions bud. I try super hard to answer as many comments as possible. 🤘

[@PwnerEpicGuy]

Hi Jesse, use felt pads on Velcro instead of the whooly attachment, there is way less chances of the rock flying away like that. also, if you dont like the mess you can easily make a flat lap and use the sander/polisher as the motor. I will upload a video on my channel this evening so you can refer to it in case you decide you wanna give it a go.I also have the full build on Mackay rocks and fossils Group which goes a bit more in depth.

[@Rookie_Rockounding]

Joseph Silva Hey Joseph, man thank you so much for the info. I’m going to be trying this for sure. And I’ll check out that video tonight! I really really appreciate the help mate. 👍👍👍👍

[@PwnerEpicGuy]

Hi Jesse, my pleasure. I have uploaded the video, if you need any info just ask. Cheers

[@Rookie_Rockounding]

Joseph Silva Man I just watched it! It’s amazing! I never thought about using it as a flat lap.... but you nailed that! Thank you so much mate. And the rocks and mineral collection is beautiful!

[@PwnerEpicGuy]

@@Rookie_Rockounding Cheers Bud

[@pattiklaus9580]

Right there with ya! Ive just started this journey as well. Your results are beautiful!

[@Rookie_Rockounding]

Oh that’s awesome! All the best Patti!

[@smashinbottles]

Awesome - I feel braver now thanks to your vids, my diamond bench wet saw has been sitting brand new unsed...on the bench for 6 months!!!!! Cannot wait to use it, still scared of getting electrocuted though. But it designed to have water running but still on edge about it. ☺

[@Rookie_Rockounding]

Hey that’s great! Yeah it’s pretty safe, of course always use precaution and safety gear but don’t be afraid of it, the more you use it, the more you will understand how best to use it and how to keep from hurting yourself. Can’t wait to hear how you go 😉👍

[@ruksrocksandadventures.5800]

I like your style, I'm purchasing a tile saw tomorrow. 👍

[@donnapolston178]

You did a great job! I am enjoying the difference between the way the minerals/gems look before and after the work was done. It helps me appreciate the beauty even more.

[@MD-nv9dt]

I love watching your videos. Thank you for sharing your rock and gem adventures with us all. You are awesome. And you have some beautiful stones. I cant wait to try cutting and polishing some of my own! 🙆‍♀️💎🎉

[@icatz]

You've done a wonderful job on these.

[@Rookie_Rockounding]

icatz Thank you 😊👍

[@mcgooglio3684]

Fantastic video, Rook!! Once you bought the saw, I was expecting a video like this and more to come I am sure. You really did a great job!!

[@Rookie_Rockounding]

Mc Googlio Haha! Yeah once I got the saw it was inevitable 😉👍

[@1catfishuntermiller753]

You did a beautiful job mate, awesome work and yes you learn as you go. Everyone who has ever polished stones have mess ups, that's just how you learn. They came out beautifully. I'm trying to set up a system right now to keep the dust out of my shop. So keep up the awesome work, I hope you have a wonderful weekend mate, Cheers!

[@reinacarrion9122]

You know what? You are awesome!!you are unique and I like you style great freaking work bro.

[@jayneevans1174]

Love this video! Thanks for all the beautiful rocks

[@angelajellick7246]

So helpful, you have given me confidence to cut more of my collection and actually polish them. Cheers 😊

[@Rookie_Rockounding]

Yay!!! That’s awesome Angela!

[@markrouse2416]

You can always use an old grow tent to do the work indoors on cold days...channels all liquids to the bottom for fast clean up.

[@Rookie_Rockounding]

Brilliant idea mark! Thank you mate!

[@xairak]

Been watching your videos, and I like that you share the mistakes with the triumphs. From one rock hound to another, great inspiration!

[@spectrumofcreation5679]

This weekend the kids and I are going to a geode hunting spot!! A friend is showing me where his grandma found a couple half American football sized ones. I cut one in half last year for him.

[@spectrumofcreation5679]

Just saying it's not really necessary to use a buffer to finalize the polish!!! This is where speed and water is key!!! I am not sure why, but high speed and 1500&3000 grit pads make the stone gleam. That's the wood vice and c clamps it to a table/work bench should hold the piece while working! Because it doesn't take much pressure on the grinder at all at that fine of grit.. I am going to be off work for about 2 months do to surgery soon. I will making some vids on my approach.. may be some tips will help. I hope so. And man you are doing a great job on your endeavor! Keep it up and keep Rocking!!!😁

[@MarlainaAtkins]

@@spectrumofcreation5679 I know it's to Rookie but thanks for the tip! Gonna try it out myself! 😎👍 P.S. You should make a vid. I'll watch! Any and all help is appreciated by many

[@spectrumofcreation5679]

@@MarlainaAtkins I did make some videos. But I am currently in a different living situation do to a house fire and insurance company's not fulfilling there responsibility's. So I am in a dang trailer park for now. I miss being in the country on are small 5 acre plot! I will be doing some cuts and polishing. Surgery next week then 2 months off work! Lots of sitting videos of some stone work. 😁

[@Rookie_Rockounding]

spectrum of creation !! Oh man that trip sounds funnnnn! Have a blast and dude, good luck with your surgery brother.

[@thinkcivil1627]

Beautiful piece of Rhyolite. Looks like there was some undercutting in certain areas, but nice contrast with the green, brown and cream colors.

[@cesarealessandrini9617]

Hey ciao! I'm your Italian super fan! I love your videos and I'm passionate about rock hounding ... even if unfortunately in Italy you can't find such beautiful pieces. aaaargh! I envy you so much !!

[@Rookie_Rockounding]

Cesare Alessandrini Ciao!!!! Thanks for your message! That makes me smile to know someone over there is getting enjoyment from the videos 😊😊😊 Happy rockhounding times from australia! 😉👍

[@paultherockhound7277]

Jesse that is amazzzzzing love the way they look so shiny cant wait to catch up BRO

[@Rookie_Rockounding]

Paul Flynn Thanks brother! Lookin forward to our next adventure! Bennies gonna love it 😁👌👍

[@paultherockhound7277]

@@Rookie_Rockounding yes mate im all excited

[@rossgraveley]

Great video 👍🔥🔥🔥👏 those are some beautiful rocks.

[@MarlainaAtkins]

Alright! You did just great dude! They turned out magnificent😍😍😍 My pads are in the mail and I'm excited to try myself. I'll make sure to add padding to the list for those rocks that want to be rock-ets instead😆 Holy Moly!🤕 haha! Just spectacular rocks Jesse. I don't think I've ever seen an "unworthy" rock yet. Keep up the great work and thanks for helping those like me who are learning with ya. Have a great week with the family! 😎🍻

[@Rookie_Rockounding]

Marlaina Atkins Hey hey Mrs Mar!!!!!!! Dude you got pads on the way!!!!!!!!!! Heck to the frikin yes! While I was doing this I’m like “man the guys have to try this” in my head haha! It is so much fun! And relaxing, pop in the headphones, some good music or a rad podcast and you watch how in the zone you get. And the rocks, dude it’s so hard to show just how much more you can see inside them. You’re gonna love it! Oh hey did you get my email off Thirst? Hope you and the fam have an awesome awesome weekend my friend!!!

[@MarlainaAtkins]

@@Rookie_Rockounding Hey man I sure do! Arriving in a week from today! I'm so stoked😄 Have so many that need to shine a little more. I may need to take some of the suggestions about securing the polisher down so I can use both my hands. I think I pulled a muscle in my arm so I need to be light with it for awhile. Anyway, I have not talked to Thirst yet but plan on it. Have a celebration of life to go to today and when I get back I'll sit and shoot him a message. You'll be hearing from me. Take care! And talk soon😎🏞