Stone Cutting and Polishing for Stained Glass: A Beginner's Guide

Question
Thomas-
I know absolute zero about stones, gems, or cutting of the afore mentioned but would like some advice anyway!  I do stained glass work and have a thought germinating in my brain that I could incorporate native stones/gems that have been cut and polished into the design of some of the pieces.  I realize that stained glass pieces utilize light transfer but I still think cut/polished stone slabs could greatly lend to some pieces.  So with all that said, what type rock saw and polisher would do simple cutting and polishing?  Any advice would be greatly appreciated.
Ronda

Answer
Ronda, thanks for this question.  I have done some stained glass and like your idea.

Here to start is a link to a lapidary supply.  Lapidary is the term for stone cutting, including polishing.

http://www.kingsleynorth.com

Look through the website for small rock saws and polishing equipment.  Click the "lapidary" link and then scroll down to equipment.  I believe you will be convinced quickly that another approach may be better than doing your own gem ornamentals for stained glass add-ons.  Lapidary is a complete hobby in itself.  Not only is sawing needed in many cases but grinding to shape using an assortment of grades of abrasive wheels then final polishing stages.  You can invest a lot quickly.

My suggestion is to first look for a local "rock shop" as a source of stone slabs (thin slices, perhaps 1/4 inch max thick) and polished agate slabs, many of which are quite beautiful in surface light and others even more alluring with transmitted light.  Oddly shaped semi-precious stones of a quality not up to jewelry standards are possibly wonderful in a stained glass piece of art.  If you use copper foil (Tiffany method) you can use smaller items than when all is connected with lead came.

Also consider glass gemstones, such as ones you might find at a crafts store.  

If a rock shop is found, ask about a local rock and gem club.  If there is one, go to a meeting and let some of the folks know what you do. You might even take a sample of glass work. Generally these clubs can be a source of gemstone and rock materials ready for you to use. If not, members may have club owned lapidary equipment and be willing to teach you how to do it.

The next approach beyond doing it yourself is to go to the website for The Jewelry Artists, formerly known as The Lapidary Journal.  This magazine is best viewed by reading an actual issue but the website is a start:

http://www.jewelryartistmagazine.com

There are plenty of ads both is display and classifieds dealing with stone materials. It is a matter of looking and finding.

To do it yourself is a fine thing to do but it is time consuming and costly to get into. And, there is a learning curve to getting a decent polish on slabs or cabochon forms.  You need to have instruction to do it well and cost effectively to start. A good book will help but you may wind up chasing a few rabbits on trails not really going your direction.

Ronda, I do hope this info helps a bit. If you need more, do not hesitate to use a follow-up to get back with me. Fair enough?

God Bless and Peace.  Thomas.