Ask the Experts Polishing Q&A

Can polished beads be tumbled to reduce polish?

Yes, you can absolutely tumble polished beads to reduce shine, but the process needs to be approached carefully. Tumbling will abrade the polished surface and create a more matte or satin finish, depending on the grit of media used. If you use a fine abrasive, like very fine silicon carbide grit, the beads will take on a subtle, softened luster rather than becoming rough. Softer stones like fluorite or turquoise will lose their polish quickly, while harder stones like quartz or agate may take longer to dull down. Do a test batch first, since the process is permanent, and over-tumbling can scratch or pit the beads instead of just reducing shine. 

- Patti