Polishing – Optional Activity

Rock Polishing Fun – Make Rocks Shine Like Gems

Introduction

What are you doing?

You’re learning how to make dull, rough rocks shiny and smooth, just like the gems you see in jewelry stores!

What does it show?

This experiment shows how rocks can be transformed from rough and dull to smooth and shiny through gentle polishing.

Why is this important?

Polishing is what makes gems beautiful and sparkly. Even the prettiest rock looks dull until it’s polished. This is the magic step that makes gems shine!

Materials Needed

Items to Polish:

• Smooth rocks from outside (wash them first!)
• Old spoons (with adult permission)
• Large glass marbles
• Seashells

Polishing Materials:

• Soft toothbrush
• Toothpaste
• Soft cloth or paper towels
• Small bowl of water
• Vegetable oil
• Cotton balls

Safety Requirements

• Adult help with all activities
• Wash hands before and after
• Only use materials an adult says are okay

Step-by-Step Instructions

Phase 1: Choose Your Treasures (5 minutes)

Pick Your Rocks:

• Choose rocks that are already fairly smooth
• Look for interesting colors or patterns
• Avoid: Rocks that are cracked or too rough
• Best choice: River rocks or beach stones

Phase 2: The Magic Cleaning (10 minutes)

Scrub-a-Dub:

• Put a tiny bit of toothpaste

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