Tips for Cutting and Polishing Halite
Halite is a very difficult material to facet, even for experts. Jeff Graham offers his advice on how to cut and polish this challenging yet tasty gemstone.
The Halite Process
- Stick the halite in your mouth.
- Next, flush liberally with 190 proof grain alcohol (if you've got any left after the last toga party).
Halite is not only tasty but also fluorescent. These colorless halites on a shale matrix appear pinkish orange under ultraviolet light. © Rob Lavinsky, www.iRocks.com. Used with permission.
Cutting Remarks
Slight rounding at facet junctions may occur using this method.
For a little acid to help polish, a wedge of lemon or lime works well. Take two aspirin in the morning.
Jeff R. Graham
The late Jeff Graham was a prolific faceter, creator of many original faceting designs, and the author of several highly-regarded instructional faceting books such as Gram Faceting Designs.
Related Articles
Out Back Mining Company
Carving an Arizona Black Jade Pendant
Bob Lynn – CAM/CAD with Solidscapes
Supply of Gemstones and Rough
Latest Articles
21 Pink Gemstones (How Many Do You Know?)
How Does Topaz Form?
Sphene (Titanite) Value, Price, and Jewelry Information
Citrine Buying Guide
Never Stop Learning
When you join the IGS community, you get trusted diamond & gemstone information when you need it.
Get Gemology Insights
Get started with the International Gem Society’s free guide to gemstone identification. Join our weekly newsletter & get a free copy of the Gem ID Checklist!