QuestionIs it best to use a wet drill bit when drilling small holes in gemstones and seashells? I have heard it cuts down on friction and overheating, thus preventing cracking and breaking. Is this true? I'm also looking for a moderately priced drill and recommended bits for my purposes.
Thank you, Thomas!
Caelian Roan
The Naked Peacock
Whidbey Island, WA
AnswerDear Caelian,
Asked about tools and lubrication for drilling gemstones and shells. With gemstones, using water or a water based lubricant is considered essential. With shells, water lubrication is very highly recommended and I would not attempt to drill the material without lubrication of water. Any breathable dust from seashells is also minimized when water is used.
I have provided a couple of links and another supplier you may check out. The first is a highly reputable and well known supplier in the jewelry/crafts area: Rio Grande. Rio Grande has some of almost anyrthing needed in jewelry types of crafts work. The link goes to diamond coated drill bits; Core bits are hollow end drill bits, doing quick work but often larger than you might need. Inexpensive small diamond coated bits are the way to go to master the process.
http://www.riogrande.com/Search/diamond-bits
As for a drill motor or device, I recommend an electric variable speed hand tool such as shown at the Amazon link.
http://www.amazon.com/s?rh=n:552862,p_n_feature_keywords_browse-bin:3453095011
A general web search should provide several drill bit suppliers such as Contenti Jewelry supply. The "variable speed rotary hand tool"(my search terms), may be found on the net or at a local home supply business. Most of the accessory kits with the hand tools are contain a wealth of items, many if not most of which will be still unused year from now. You need specific tools. You also need a hand-piece with a Jacobs style chuck for the bit. This is the sort which is infinitely variable from closed to the maximum opening of the design. Otherwise, you get "collets", slotted collar which will tighten on the bit end. Collets fit specific sizes are and are less adaptable than the Jacobs style. Still, either way, the bit must run and turn true and straight.
Water can range from saliva in a quick small job to and small dam of modeling clay to hold water, keeping in mind the hand tool is electrical. You need a braced or otherwise quite steady hold and begin with a slower speed to grind out a starting hole. Then speed may be increased. Lessen pressure when you believe it is almost through to prevent a braking of flakes from the opposite surface when the bit exits. Moving the bit out of the drill hole while working allows residue to be washed away and gived s visual of progress.
Caelian, I believe this information will help you. God Bless and the beat wished in your projects. I could not resist googling yoiur business and Whidbey Island. Your opening web page is very pleasing to my eye and invites going inside. btw.
