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.
By Jeff R. Graham, updated on
Some lapidary experts have successfully cut and polished halite, a very challenging halide mineral to facet. This is how I do it.
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.
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