Suggestions (of what works for me)...to avoid the mess you got on the bottom of the barrel shake the barrels every day or two and if you have a 2 barrel tumbler switch positions so that they roll in the opposite direction. I do that every couple of days as well. I also can't help but think that more stones in the first batch instead of ceramics would have made better use of the grit. I never use any filler media in the first stage knowing that the rocks will reduce in size by themselves....sometimes not even in stage 2. After that all my filler are beach pebbles that I've already polished before so they can go into any stage.
@@AgateAriel If you want a clinical take on tumbling rocks.. like serial killer OCD Have a look at MichiganRocks. That guy is an ex-math teacher and gets some amazing results.
Hi Agate Ariel, I saw you struggle quite a bit on that last step. I might be able to help. MY ADVICE: Go back to Ivory or other standard bar soap. Ivory is probably best, since it is one of the few soaps out there that is a true, traditional (tallowate, meaning derived from animal fat) soap. Think about the principal use for Dawn. It's used in washing dishes. The primary soil on dishes is fat and grease. Dawn is formulated specifically to remove grease through micellization. You can look up 'how soap works' and get a five-minute understanding of micelles, which could be useful to you. Your rocks don't have any grease to speak of, but they do carry *particulates* , which is the grit and polish media adhering to your rocks. Dawn contains nonionic surfactants, which are most useful in micellizing grease. Ivory, on the other hand, contains mostly anionic surfactants--that is, electrically charged surfactants, and this type of surfactant is *excellent* at micellizing charged particles, which is what you're working with--particles and particulates. If you don't believe me, you might try running parallel batches on a Lortone 2x3, both barrels containing freshly polished and not yet burnished rock, Dawn in one barrel, Ivory in the other. Examine the rocks closely and try to place rocks of similar grit/polish retention in each barrel. You should find (after burnishing) that the rocks in the Ivory barrel have less grit/polish than the rocks in the Dawn barrel. Now, about that white coating from Ivory. That's the soap or soap scum or both. I'd recommend treating with dilute CLR with a few drops of Dawn. Wash the rocks gently in the dilute CLR/Dawn, rinse 3x, and that should take care of the whitish residue. CLR will ionize the scum into calcium ion (or other metal ion) and surfactant, and Dawn will micellize any soap stuck to the rocks. I worked at the Ecolab R&D Center for four years as a chemist, so I have expertise in surfactants and built detergents. After Ecolab, I entered pharmaceutical R&D and became a principal chemist/group leader for a major pharmaceutical company. I retired from the lab in 2011. Cheers! PM 2023
@@mutahmarriagecounselor2272 Borax is primarily an anti-redeposition and suspension agent in its application to rock tumbling. Borax acts by surrounding small particles, preventing them from redepositing onto surfaces. This is somewhat akin to micellization, though the actual mechanism is entirely different since it relies on charge-charge interaction exclusively, and not on HLB or hydrophile-lipophile interactions. Borax is particularly effective in tumbling applications because of the enormous quantity of particulates and the ready availability of metal ions for borax to interact with. But borax is not a surfactant and not a cleaner per se. In Agate Ariel's application she seems to be seeking aggressive removal of particulate (residual grit), so tallowate bar soap (Ivory) is a very good choice. You could certainly add *some* borax to the surfactant (soap), but I would not use much at all. Borax is just not all that aggressive, and if you add too much, you're likely to interfere with micellization, essentially neutralizing the soap, so you're shooting yourself in the foot--and wasting time and money on something that's not going to work. Let the soap do its thing.
@@Paul-kd3ui Ha! You gave me a good laugh. Well, yes, I suppose the fact that no two electrons can share the same set of quantum values has bearing at some point, but I doubt many rock collectors will concern themselves with such matters. Even a guy like me, who spent his entire working life in the R&D lab, hardly ever has to cogitate on esoteric matters such as quantum states. I've discussed those in far greater depth in my novels than in my published technical articles. Here it comes down to the fact that tallowate soap (e.g., Ivory), or at least some type of anionic surfactant, is likely to remove particulates much better than nonionic surfactants, such as those P&G decided to put into Dawn. I don't know that subatomic particle physicists would agree, but I've always been content to let them argue about quanta. While they're busy arguing, I'm going to tumble some rocks. Cheers!
I like the before and after pictures of the rocks. My husband and I enjoy your bubbly, expressive personality. You remind us a little of our youngest (grown up) daughter. We plan to collect rocks and do this with our two granddaughters ages 2&3/4 and 5&3/4. We have a rock tumbler from my husbands childhood. We did a little math and figured it is about 50 years old. We did this with our daughters when they were kids and now we are sharing the experience with the same tumbler with the grands. Three generations of tumblers in the making. Your videos are delightful and helpful.
Oh that is so cool that you guys will be passing down the tradition! It is such a wholesome and fun hobby! I’m glad the video could be helpful for you! 😊
Jaspers tend to undercut a lot. One thing I like to do is run stage 2 for a 2nd time. It doesn't do a lot, but it can help work out minor imperfections without loosing a lot of size. Also, if polish does get trapped in cracks and pits, I have found that soaking the rocks in 50/50 vinegar, water, and dish soap can help to release the polish powder. There is no one right to polish rocks, just find a process that works for you, tweak it if needed, and have fun.
I just love the fact that you say what are type the rocks that you're showing!! I learned so much from your vid also! So much patience, such cool work! Thank you!
Ariel you were amazing. That was a lot of work, but it was worth it. The rocks were beautifully polished. Your step by step narrative was spot on. Thanks for sharing your time and talent with us. Keep the goodness coming. Be happy, safe and stay healthy 😷⚒
I,just bought a tumbler..ive always had rock issues since childhood….went to alaska for a yr and an half and eveeryday went out looking for stones…my husband sent back to michigan all the rocks id collected thru if it fits it ships boxes…..a toatal,of 17 boxes ( large size) anyway my tumbler looks like yours…two tubs and i boughtbthe grit kit from amazon ( looks like yours) im on my first wash as im writing this….Im so excited! Your rocks were absolutely gorgeous! New sub here for sure Ariel!
Vielen Dank wie du das erklärst. Ist dann viel einfacher damit zu beginnen. Ich habe jetzt meine 2. Charge Steine durch und bin nach 2 Wochen polieren nicht zu frieden und mache es nochmal. Werde auch versuchen dein Material zu bestellen. Mal sehen ob es klappt. Danke nochmal.
Amazing video Ariel, well done. Love seeing all the steps, and your tips and tricks along the way. Also the pieces you tumbled are so outstanding, so cool. Thanks for sharing your passion and hard work!
What cycle do you add ceramic rock tumbling media? I’m very beginner, literally a few weeks ago a friend gave us a rock tumbler 😊 this is exactly why I came here 😊
You are delightful! Your love for rocks and the info you share is fantastic. Any tips on the best sources for learning more about rock identification for newbies?
I loved, loved your video! I have been tumbling rocks for a short time. You have given me the instructive hope I needed to complete my gems. Thank you.
Since Dish soap is so bubbly a great option would be to use Dishwasher Liquid....It is meant to clean without frothing and bubbling and works great for tight spaces like a tumbler
Nice! That is an amazing assortment of beautiful rocks. Your methods worked even though you are super busy with other things. I love the mary ellen jasper, and the jasper with hematite (metallic black), the one with a lot of pits, one of my favorites because of the color contrast and metallic look. Love your videos.
You always have the absolute BEST instructional videos. You are so thorough and easy to follow. You usually end up answering all of my questions before the end of the video, haha. What causes the polish to crack the rocks if it's left behind? I imagine that it's such a fine material so it's able to work its way into all of the cracks but I wondered if you had a better explanation. As always, thank you Ariel!! :) That beautiful piece of chert was definitely the show-stopper!
Wow thank you so much-that is such an awesome compliment! I’m actually not sure! Maybe the polish expands slightly when dry? That’s a really good question!
one thing i found successful was if you have really jagged rocks and are not already somewhat rounded like you find with river rock is i start out with 36 course grit, and that really grinds them down then when there irregularly rounded i moved to 60/90 until there perfectly smooth and rounded that really reduces the time when working with jagged or squarish rock and suggestion, instead of doing all that soap stages to remove stage 1 is i put them in a ultrasonic cleaner and repeat until water comes out clear, until i make my rock tumbler shelf that can tumble 4 to 8 barrels at a time i save all them after stage 2 and then throw them all in a vibratory tumbler for stage 3 and 4 just make sure its full to capacity cuz i suspect that not having it full makes them crack, but vibratory does the last 2 stages within just 2 or 3 days
Can I suggest a plastic mesh bottom colander? And I like to acid wash mine to eat the edges away in cracks. Smooths them right out. Just got to do it in a well ventilated place and keep an loose eye on them.
Do you ever have issues with polly plastics missing grit upon delivery ? I ordered a few from amazon and both had a few stages of grit about half full. Should i order straight from polly plastics instead?
Have you tried Borax for your final cleaning process. It's gritty and fine enough to get a deep cleaning and is water soluble so after a couple hours it's liquified . If I remember correctly it's basicly the same active ingredient that's in the Irish bar soap
After the 4th stage why are my rocks still to dull? I received some packs of gel looking stuff with my 4 stages of grit. Do you know what the polishing liquid/gel is?? do I use it for a 5th stage. It didn't come with any instructions.
Love your cheerful video. Really pretty stones. One thing I have noticed with my large rubber barrel, is that when I do a overnight wash, the water can be really black. It was suggested to me, that it's the black coming off the rubber.
Great question! Make sure to never flush grit down the drain or in a toilet. I personally dump mine in my landscaping rocks and wash it away with water. You could also find a place on your property in the grass or other outside areas!
Ariel I use a ultrasonic cleaner for a lot of things including my rocks and it works wonders on the finer grit stages by using cavitation bubbles to knock the grit loose. Bought mine off of Amazon.
@@AgateAriel I use borax or leftover heavy duty powder clothes detergent (used to be a mechanic lol) what is so funny I lived in Saint Paul up until last year. But I have been thinking of using Zeps heavy duty cleaner liquid they have a type that is non corrosive and eco friendly.
Thanks for the video. Makes me think that I probably need to sort my rocks better before tumbling, and clean them better before switching grit. You made me cringe running the pocket knife on the rocks
I recommend dedicating your media. This means used media used in step 1 is ONLY used in step 1. I have dedicated tumblers, and dedicated ceramic medias. I went to the dollar store and got plastic containers with lids. Any media and small rock bits are kept in containers labeled " step 1, ceramic media. Or step 1 plastic media. Yes I occasionally do use plastic media in step 1 when dealing with softer rocks like Pudding stone. I have "stations" for each step of my tumbling. Station 1 contains a tumbler for step 1 , coarse grit for steps 0 and 1, new, unused ceramic media , used ceramic media* A container with water for cleansed step one rocks waiting to go to step 2. This is repeated for stations 2, 3, 4. *You should NOT use ceramic media from step 1 or 0 beyond the grit use. This is because no matter how much you rinse, there will be specks of that step's grit EMBEDDED into the media. The grit does not just stay on top of the media in the early stages. The speed, weight, and grinding process often pushes grit into the media. While this is ok for steps 0 and 2, embedded grit in media will scratch if used in later stages. I WILL use my used media in rougher steps if I run low. I have taken my used step 3 media for example, to cushion rocks in a step 2 tumble. Once used thst way the used media becomes step 2 used media and never returns to step 3 use. You can always use higher step media in lower steps but then dedicate it to that lower step.
@AgateAriel In my other life, I was a scientist so issues like cross contamination and adulteration are drilled into me. I noticed my used ceramic media had grit embedded in it a few pieces were scratchy. From then on, dedicated media.
Hi, I'm confused how the polish makes a rock crack? I've never heard of that before but I'm new to tumbling. I think Rob @ Michigan Rocks described it differently, that because the polish is so small, it gets into the cracks that were already present but previously invisible, eroding and widening them into view.
Yes Rob is correct! I just say the polish cracks the rocks because it’s easier but to be technical, yes because it’s so fine the polish gets in any cracks and cracks them large enough to see!
I learned from another channel that you should give hamsters just 1 special treat per week, so maybe you can use the same guidelines, tumbler boys and girls should only eat one pellet per week.
Hi Ariel, I love your rock tumbling videos. You really know how to find beautiful rocks. I have a question regarding your grits amount. Do you use 2 tbsp per pound of rock or 1 tbsp? The instructions in my poly plastics set says 2 tbsp. I would love to know so I can save on the expensive grit.
Thank you so much! Good question actually-I always just use two scoops for my barrel and have found success with that! I will have to measure (correctly this time 🤣) and let you know but two scoops seems to me the magic number for me and my size barrel!
Hi Ariel, new to your channel. My granddaughter and I are just starting rock hounding and tumbling this year. I'm in MN like you, but the granddaughter is in TX. And quick question, which you may or not covered in other videos. Can the media, grit, be recovered and thus reused? Another question. Do you know of any good rock hounding locations on the NW Minnesota in the old lake agassiz basin? There are plenty of gravels in the area, but don't know if any quality rocks are being found in this region. Thanks
Hi Bill, yes you definitely can reuse the media until it gets too small. Some people prefer to dedicate media for specific grits, but I don’t see much of an issue carrying the grit along in each stage. You can’t really reuse the grit as it breaks down while it’s tumbling your rocks. Some people do like to dry it out though and add it into their next tumble. I personally have never tried that though!
I need your help? I did my first tumbling of two 3 lb tubs of rocks and it took over a month. After tunneling them in the polishing process I burnished them for 2 days! In fact I burnished between every step! The rocks came out dull looking. I use ceramic media on the first step and then after that I use plastic pellets. I changed out the plastic pellets and use new ones on each step also. I noticed when I watched some of your videos you don't use anything but other rocks and tumbling. I also saw you use ceramic media but not any plastic pellets. Some of the videos I've watched of other people tumbling they will use ceramic media and no plastic pellets. I ran the whole load of rocks again for 2 weeks using new plastic pellets and I got mostly the same result. I'm confused if I should just use ceramic media and not use any plastic until I do the polish process only.
I’m sorry your rocks came out dull! I have never used plastic pellets before but it could be what is causing the dull appearance. It may be the grit that you are using however. What grit do you use? My go to is Polly plastics. Definitely avoid the National Geographic grit.
@@AgateAriel , sorry it took me a few days to get back to you but I had a really busy weekend. The Rock Tumbler that I got was from Harbor Freight. It was the Chicago electric tumblers with two 3 lb barrels. They also sell the grit and Polish prepackaged box. The step #1 grit was 60/90 silicone carbide, The step #2 grit was 180/220 silicone carbite, The step #3 pre-polished grit was 500 silicone carbide. The step #4 was 1200 Fine Aluminum Oxide. I used their instructions and the only thing I did difference was I put borax in when I was burnishing between the different steps. I ran each step for 10 days instead of 7. Also when I would burnish I would run it for 24 hours. And also between each step I would wish down the rocks take a toothbrush or brush to clean them thoroughly and I would thoroughly clean out the barrel before vanishing and also after burnishing and everything. On their first step they didn't use any medium. Starting on the second step is when they said to add plastic to make up the difference when feeling the barrel to 2/3 or 3/4 full. The second time I ran everything through and cleaned everything I ran the polish for 2 weeks and still didn't have much luck I had just a few rocks that came out shiny The rest had a doll look to them when dry! I watched your whole video and I'm going to try what you did in your video and not use any plastic but will use the ceramic media instead if I get low when I go to fill the barrel because of the loss after the first grinding with grit. I'm also lengthening the time instead of 10 days I'm going to go two to three weeks. I also got the model b 15 lb tumblers Tumbler! I bought an extra barrel for it to keep separately for polishing. I'm on the polishing load with it right now and it's been running just a little over a week I'm going to leave it run for another week before cleaning everything to see how that load turns out! I did use ceramic media when tumbling with this load but on the polishing load I'm using plastic pellets! I hope that is not the problem that I'm having and that things will come out nice and shiny. I really appreciate your help I enjoy watching your videos! Thank you
Awesome, love a good Rock Tumbling. 😀 And Love Pollyanna Plastics !!!! Only grit I use! It's interesting you used half the amount of grit I use for step 1, so I wouldn't think you used too much. Pollyanna plastics suggests you use 2 tbsp. Per pound of rock, so I typically use 6 in total for step 1 and havnt run into that issue with them sticking to the bottom.
That is really interesting! Yes for my tumbler barrel it seems that if I go over two scoops I get that problem! Also saves on the grit when you can use less as well!
@@AgateAriel oh yeah. And would make sense that the person your buying product from wants you to get through it quicker so you can purchase more, haha Thank you for all your videos, you channel inspired me to make one with my son. Also how long did the baby/mineral oil stay on your agates for? I have the similar issue where it doesn't matter how much ceramic medium I put in my agates always looked cracked once my process if finished and although it probably isn't a big deal I can definitely relate to using the oil giving you a better peace of mind because it just looks that much cleaner 😀
Great video! Quick question: should we weight the barrel with the water in it? I thought we just wanted the weight of the rocks and media, but maybe I am wrong :)
need to adress the nat ego and different tumblers, I was told weeks, The speed of the tumbler was so fast i was making gems for thanos... I had to buy a adapter to lower the voltage. This made my 1 speed that was 150RPM down to a respectable 35. its gonna throw alotta peeps off.. also the importance of grit during polishing. like 1200 isn't sufficient, more like 2-14k
Just a tip: i don't know how you are doing audio but you keep fading in and out (louder then softer). It's very noticeable and detracts from your presentation. I foyu can figure out a way to stabilize this it would help.
I was thinking about buying me a tumbler and tumble some rocks but after watching you I've decided I no longer want to. That's just too much of a hassle.
Maybe I didn’t explain that right. When left over polish remains in the microscopic cracks in your rocks, it will expand making the cracks larger and more noticeable. Hope that helps!
Suggestions (of what works for me)...to avoid the mess you got on the bottom of the barrel shake the barrels every day or two and if you have a 2 barrel tumbler switch positions so that they roll in the opposite direction. I do that every couple of days as well. I also can't help but think that more stones in the first batch instead of ceramics would have made better use of the grit. I never use any filler media in the first stage knowing that the rocks will reduce in size by themselves....sometimes not even in stage 2. After that all my filler are beach pebbles that I've already polished before so they can go into any stage.
Yes I have heard that a lot and am definitely going to try no media until the third and fourth stage! Thank you for your insight! 😊
@@AgateAriel If you want a clinical take on tumbling rocks.. like serial killer OCD Have a look at MichiganRocks.
That guy is an ex-math teacher and gets some amazing results.
@@74KU seconded.. he is a little much but his results don’t lie
I am actually super thankful you accidentally did too much. It was beneficial to learn what happens if you put in too much!
Hi Agate Ariel, I saw you struggle quite a bit on that last step. I might be able to help. MY ADVICE: Go back to Ivory or other standard bar soap. Ivory is probably best, since it is one of the few soaps out there that is a true, traditional (tallowate, meaning derived from animal fat) soap. Think about the principal use for Dawn. It's used in washing dishes. The primary soil on dishes is fat and grease. Dawn is formulated specifically to remove grease through micellization. You can look up 'how soap works' and get a five-minute understanding of micelles, which could be useful to you. Your rocks don't have any grease to speak of, but they do carry *particulates* , which is the grit and polish media adhering to your rocks. Dawn contains nonionic surfactants, which are most useful in micellizing grease. Ivory, on the other hand, contains mostly anionic surfactants--that is, electrically charged surfactants, and this type of surfactant is *excellent* at micellizing charged particles, which is what you're working with--particles and particulates. If you don't believe me, you might try running parallel batches on a Lortone 2x3, both barrels containing freshly polished and not yet burnished rock, Dawn in one barrel, Ivory in the other. Examine the rocks closely and try to place rocks of similar grit/polish retention in each barrel. You should find (after burnishing) that the rocks in the Ivory barrel have less grit/polish than the rocks in the Dawn barrel. Now, about that white coating from Ivory. That's the soap or soap scum or both. I'd recommend treating with dilute CLR with a few drops of Dawn. Wash the rocks gently in the dilute CLR/Dawn, rinse 3x, and that should take care of the whitish residue. CLR will ionize the scum into calcium ion (or other metal ion) and surfactant, and Dawn will micellize any soap stuck to the rocks. I worked at the Ecolab R&D Center for four years as a chemist, so I have expertise in surfactants and built detergents. After Ecolab, I entered pharmaceutical R&D and became a principal chemist/group leader for a major pharmaceutical company. I retired from the lab in 2011. Cheers! PM 2023
What about Borax?
@@mutahmarriagecounselor2272 Borax is primarily an anti-redeposition and suspension agent in its application to rock tumbling. Borax acts by surrounding small particles, preventing them from redepositing onto surfaces. This is somewhat akin to micellization, though the actual mechanism is entirely different since it relies on charge-charge interaction exclusively, and not on HLB or hydrophile-lipophile interactions. Borax is particularly effective in tumbling applications because of the enormous quantity of particulates and the ready availability of metal ions for borax to interact with. But borax is not a surfactant and not a cleaner per se. In Agate Ariel's application she seems to be seeking aggressive removal of particulate (residual grit), so tallowate bar soap (Ivory) is a very good choice. You could certainly add *some* borax to the surfactant (soap), but I would not use much at all. Borax is just not all that aggressive, and if you add too much, you're likely to interfere with micellization, essentially neutralizing the soap, so you're shooting yourself in the foot--and wasting time and money on something that's not going to work. Let the soap do its thing.
@@AncientNovelistand the pauli exclusion principle applies the quanta mechanisms concerning matter such as this
@@Paul-kd3ui Ha! You gave me a good laugh. Well, yes, I suppose the fact that no two electrons can share the same set of quantum values has bearing at some point, but I doubt many rock collectors will concern themselves with such matters. Even a guy like me, who spent his entire working life in the R&D lab, hardly ever has to cogitate on esoteric matters such as quantum states. I've discussed those in far greater depth in my novels than in my published technical articles. Here it comes down to the fact that tallowate soap (e.g., Ivory), or at least some type of anionic surfactant, is likely to remove particulates much better than nonionic surfactants, such as those P&G decided to put into Dawn. I don't know that subatomic particle physicists would agree, but I've always been content to let them argue about quanta. While they're busy arguing, I'm going to tumble some rocks. Cheers!
I do ivory too.. power washing alone isn't enough.
I like the before and after pictures of the rocks. My husband and I enjoy your bubbly, expressive personality. You remind us a little of our youngest (grown up) daughter. We plan to collect rocks and do this with our two granddaughters ages 2&3/4 and 5&3/4. We have a rock tumbler from my husbands childhood. We did a little math and figured it is about 50 years old. We did this with our daughters when they were kids and now we are sharing the experience with the same tumbler with the grands. Three generations of tumblers in the making. Your videos are delightful and helpful.
Oh that is so cool that you guys will be passing down the tradition! It is such a wholesome and fun hobby! I’m glad the video could be helpful for you! 😊
Thank you for taking the time to name all the rocks. That really helps a lot.
Of course! Glad it was helpful! 😊
I’m a total beginner at rock hounding, and so glad I took the time to watch your video.
Jaspers tend to undercut a lot. One thing I like to do is run stage 2 for a 2nd time. It doesn't do a lot, but it can help work out minor imperfections without loosing a lot of size. Also, if polish does get trapped in cracks and pits, I have found that soaking the rocks in 50/50 vinegar, water, and dish soap can help to release the polish powder. There is no one right to polish rocks, just find a process that works for you, tweak it if needed, and have fun.
That is so true! We all have our own ways! I’ll have to try that to get the polish out!
I just love the fact that you say what are type the rocks that you're showing!! I learned so much from your vid also! So much patience, such cool work! Thank you!
Ariel you were amazing. That was a lot of work, but it was worth it. The rocks were beautifully polished. Your step by step narrative was spot on. Thanks for sharing your time and talent with us. Keep the goodness coming. Be happy, safe and stay healthy 😷⚒
Thank you so much! That was a really kind compliment! I’m glad you liked the video and hope it can be useful for you! 😊
I’m blown away at the mirror finish. The patience and details you put into your work is impeccable ❤
I like that you messed up because it’s perfect for a bunch of examples thank you!!!
This is the third video that I have watched of yours and you never say what cycle demands what speed
This is one of the best tutorials I have seen so far.
Thank you so much-that is such an awesome compliment! 😊🙌
Great tutorial! These stones may have taken a while, but the result after all the soapy water rinses reared a first class polish. BRAVO Ariel!!!
Thank you! It’s such a great hobby and I love seeing the results in the end!
Great video! I am tumbling my very first bunch of rocks. This video was so helpful to me. I am also in Minnesota.
Oh that is so awesome! Good luck on your tumbling and I hope this video helps! Shout out to a fellow Minnesotan! 😊
I now know why my first rock tumbling. Thank You for the very helpful video, You Rock.
Glad I could help! 😊
Omg your “that looks cool!” On step 3 grit had me cracking up 😂
I,just bought a tumbler..ive always had rock issues since childhood….went to alaska for a yr and an half and eveeryday went out looking for stones…my husband sent back to michigan all the rocks id collected thru if it fits it ships boxes…..a toatal,of 17 boxes ( large size) anyway my tumbler looks like yours…two tubs and i boughtbthe grit kit from amazon ( looks like yours) im on my first wash as im writing this….Im so excited! Your rocks were absolutely gorgeous! New sub here for sure Ariel!
Thank you so much! I hope you find a lot of success in your tumbling!
That last rock was awesome. I love that grey color.
Right! It was such a cool result!!
Just got my tumbler…. Your videos are amazing! Thanks for sharing!!!
Awesome! Thank you!
Oh I love how they turned out. Yes I learned a little more .watching you. Thank you.
Awesome tips! I highly recommend purchasing tumbling supplies from The Rock Shed. Very affordable and consistently good quality!
I have heard about the rock shed! I will have to check it out sometime!
Vielen Dank wie du das erklärst. Ist dann viel einfacher damit zu beginnen. Ich habe jetzt meine 2. Charge Steine durch und bin nach 2 Wochen polieren nicht zu frieden und mache es nochmal. Werde auch versuchen dein Material zu bestellen. Mal sehen ob es klappt. Danke nochmal.
Amazing video Ariel, well done. Love seeing all the steps, and your tips and tricks along the way. Also the pieces you tumbled are so outstanding, so cool. Thanks for sharing your passion and hard work!
Thank you so much! I really wanted to make this batch special and it was definitely my favorite batch I have tumbled so far!
@@AgateAriel I agree, it's special!
Thanks for taking the time, I've learned so many helpful tips .
Awesome! I’m glad I could help! 😊
What cycle do you add ceramic rock tumbling media? I’m very beginner, literally a few weeks ago a friend gave us a rock tumbler 😊 this is exactly why I came here 😊
the unexpected grey one at the 29 minute mark is really amazing, it looks like a japanese painting
You are delightful! Your love for rocks and the info you share is fantastic. Any tips on the best sources for learning more about rock identification for newbies?
I loved, loved your video! I have been tumbling rocks for a short time. You have given me the instructive hope I needed to complete my gems. Thank you.
Since Dish soap is so bubbly a great option would be to use Dishwasher Liquid....It is meant to clean without frothing and bubbling and works great for tight spaces like a tumbler
Borax is also a great cleaner in between stages and for burnishing! Beautiful rocks!
Yes I have heard that as well-I haven’t tried it yet but I have been meaning to! Maybe a comparison video coming up 🤔🙌
Nice! That is an amazing assortment of beautiful rocks. Your methods worked even though you are super busy with other things. I love the mary ellen jasper, and the jasper with hematite (metallic black), the one with a lot of pits, one of my favorites because of the color contrast and metallic look. Love your videos.
Oh great idea! Yes sometimes the lid really gets stuck on there and it hurts my nails trying to pull it off-I’ll have to try that next time! 🙌
do you have to scrub the rocks when just checking them and putting back in the same stage? new rock tumbler here
You always have the absolute BEST instructional videos. You are so thorough and easy to follow. You usually end up answering all of my questions before the end of the video, haha. What causes the polish to crack the rocks if it's left behind? I imagine that it's such a fine material so it's able to work its way into all of the cracks but I wondered if you had a better explanation. As always, thank you Ariel!! :) That beautiful piece of chert was definitely the show-stopper!
Wow thank you so much-that is such an awesome compliment! I’m actually not sure! Maybe the polish expands slightly when dry? That’s a really good question!
one thing i found successful was if you have really jagged rocks and are not already somewhat rounded like you find with river rock is i start out with 36 course grit, and that really grinds them down then when there irregularly rounded i moved to 60/90 until there perfectly smooth and rounded that really reduces the time when working with jagged or squarish rock
and suggestion, instead of doing all that soap stages to remove stage 1 is i put them in a ultrasonic cleaner and repeat until water comes out clear, until i make my rock tumbler shelf that can tumble 4 to 8 barrels at a time i save all them after stage 2 and then throw them all in a vibratory tumbler for stage 3 and 4 just make sure its full to capacity cuz i suspect that not having it full makes them crack, but vibratory does the last 2 stages within just 2 or 3 days
Thank you for the video!
I really need to fix my tumblers so I can officially it a whirl!
Oh definitely get them fixed! It is such a fun and rewarding hobby especially seeing the beautifully shiny rocks at the end! 🙌
My pop uses a small cheese grater with a handle for the Ivory bar soap.
Honest question here...what determines the use of shaved ivory bar soap rather than dawn liquid soap ?
Thank you for the video, I learned so much from this video, it explained alot
Can I suggest a plastic mesh bottom colander? And I like to acid wash mine to eat the edges away in cracks. Smooths them right out. Just got to do it in a well ventilated place and keep an loose eye on them.
Oh good suggestions!
Thanks. Very Relaxing video. Keep doing them.
Thank you so much! 😊
Steel has a mohs hardness of. 4.0. Agate (quartz) has a mohs hardness of 7. Thus the strainer will not scratch agate.
Good stuff Ariel! Hope you’re doing well and your little pebble pup to be too! Find any more of those gorgeous agates lately?
I have actually! In a video coming up I found a gorgeous agate that I can’t wait to share!!
Very nice stones! Do you have a video on tumblers and how to choose a good one?
I don’t actually! I only have the one so I haven’t done much comparing. Definitely something I might try coming up!
Do you ever have issues with polly plastics missing grit upon delivery ? I ordered a few from amazon and both had a few stages of grit about half full. Should i order straight from polly plastics instead?
😃 That was fun!! Awesome rocks with an amazing shine!! 👏
Thank you! I love how they look in the end! 😊
Have you tried Borax for your final cleaning process. It's gritty and fine enough to get a deep cleaning and is water soluble so after a couple hours it's liquified . If I remember correctly it's basicly the same active ingredient that's in the Irish bar soap
I actually haven’t! I really need to try that!
what is the best brand name for grits? is there 1 better then the onther
if you skipped grit 1 would they still be shiny but keep their natural shape?
After the 4th stage why are my rocks still to dull? I received some packs of gel looking stuff with my 4 stages of grit. Do you know what the polishing liquid/gel is?? do I use it for a 5th stage. It didn't come with any instructions.
Love your cheerful video.
Really pretty stones.
One thing I have noticed with my large rubber barrel, is that when I do a overnight wash, the water can be really black.
It was suggested to me, that it's the black coming off the rubber.
Oh that’s a really good point-you might just be right!
@@AgateAriel I did a little video to demonstrate, the water was so dark.
Good series, They look great!
Thank you so much! 😊
For a brand new newbie, tell me, what do you do with the used water with the grit in it? How do you safely dispose of it?
Great question! Make sure to never flush grit down the drain or in a toilet. I personally dump mine in my landscaping rocks and wash it away with water. You could also find a place on your property in the grass or other outside areas!
Ariel I use a ultrasonic cleaner for a lot of things including my rocks and it works wonders on the finer grit stages by using cavitation bubbles to knock the grit loose. Bought mine off of Amazon.
Yes! I have tried that! I only used water in it though and it worked okay. What do you use in yours?
@@AgateAriel I use borax or leftover heavy duty powder clothes detergent (used to be a mechanic lol) what is so funny I lived in Saint Paul up until last year. But I have been thinking of using Zeps heavy duty cleaner liquid they have a type that is non corrosive and eco friendly.
@@clannishkobra8965 oh by perfect thank you! How much borax would you use?
@@AgateAriel I use 2-3 teaspoons. My barrel is 3.5 pounds
Thanks for the video. Makes me think that I probably need to sort my rocks better before tumbling, and clean them better before switching grit. You made me cringe running the pocket knife on the rocks
Haha sorry about that! Glad I could help though! 😅
I recommend dedicating your media. This means used media used in step 1 is ONLY used in step 1. I have dedicated tumblers, and dedicated ceramic medias. I went to the dollar store and got plastic containers with lids.
Any media and small rock bits are kept in containers labeled " step 1, ceramic media. Or step 1 plastic media.
Yes I occasionally do use plastic media in step 1 when dealing with softer rocks like Pudding stone.
I have "stations" for each step of my tumbling. Station 1 contains a tumbler for step 1 , coarse grit for steps 0 and 1, new, unused ceramic media , used ceramic media* A container with water for cleansed step one rocks waiting to go to step 2. This is repeated for stations 2, 3, 4.
*You should NOT use ceramic media from step 1 or 0 beyond the grit use. This is because no matter how much you rinse, there will be specks of that step's grit EMBEDDED into the media. The grit does not just stay on top of the media in the early stages. The speed, weight, and grinding process often pushes grit into the media. While this is ok for steps 0 and 2, embedded grit in media will scratch if used in later stages.
I WILL use my used media in rougher steps if I run low. I have taken my used step 3 media for example, to cushion rocks in a step 2 tumble. Once used thst way the used media becomes step 2 used media and never returns to step 3 use.
You can always use higher step media in lower steps but then dedicate it to that lower step.
Yes I really need to start doing that! I haven’t had much of an issue with it, but it definitely seems to be best practice to have dedicated media!
@AgateAriel In my other life, I was a scientist so issues like cross contamination and adulteration are drilled into me. I noticed my used ceramic media had grit embedded in it a few pieces were scratchy. From then on, dedicated media.
Hi, I'm confused how the polish makes a rock crack? I've never heard of that before but I'm new to tumbling. I think Rob @ Michigan Rocks described it differently, that because the polish is so small, it gets into the cracks that were already present but previously invisible, eroding and widening them into view.
Yes Rob is correct! I just say the polish cracks the rocks because it’s easier but to be technical, yes because it’s so fine the polish gets in any cracks and cracks them large enough to see!
How many of the ceramic pellets you suggest not eating? Every time I fill my cylinder I always end up eating too many of them and get a stomach ache.
You know, I wouldn’t suggest not ingesting any-but to each their own! 🤣
I learned from another channel that you should give hamsters just 1 special treat per week, so maybe you can use the same guidelines, tumbler boys and girls should only eat one pellet per week.
@@Blackadder75 But they're so good! I can't just have one of them.
You have a lot of patience,👍
Haha for some things!
Hi Ariel, I love your rock tumbling videos. You really know how to find beautiful rocks. I have a question regarding your grits amount. Do you use 2 tbsp per pound of rock or 1 tbsp? The instructions in my poly plastics set says 2 tbsp. I would love to know so I can save on the expensive grit.
Thank you so much! Good question actually-I always just use two scoops for my barrel and have found success with that! I will have to measure (correctly this time 🤣) and let you know but two scoops seems to me the magic number for me and my size barrel!
Hi Ariel, new to your channel. My granddaughter and I are just starting rock hounding and tumbling this year. I'm in MN like you, but the granddaughter is in TX. And quick question, which you may or not covered in other videos. Can the media, grit, be recovered and thus reused? Another question. Do you know of any good rock hounding locations on the NW Minnesota in the old lake agassiz basin? There are plenty of gravels in the area, but don't know if any quality rocks are being found in this region. Thanks
Hi Bill, yes you definitely can reuse the media until it gets too small. Some people prefer to dedicate media for specific grits, but I don’t see much of an issue carrying the grit along in each stage. You can’t really reuse the grit as it breaks down while it’s tumbling your rocks. Some people do like to dry it out though and add it into their next tumble. I personally have never tried that though!
I need your help? I did my first tumbling of two 3 lb tubs of rocks and it took over a month. After tunneling them in the polishing process I burnished them for 2 days! In fact I burnished between every step! The rocks came out dull looking. I use ceramic media on the first step and then after that I use plastic pellets. I changed out the plastic pellets and use new ones on each step also. I noticed when I watched some of your videos you don't use anything but other rocks and tumbling. I also saw you use ceramic media but not any plastic pellets. Some of the videos I've watched of other people tumbling they will use ceramic media and no plastic pellets. I ran the whole load of rocks again for 2 weeks using new plastic pellets and I got mostly the same result. I'm confused if I should just use ceramic media and not use any plastic until I do the polish process only.
I’m sorry your rocks came out dull! I have never used plastic pellets before but it could be what is causing the dull appearance. It may be the grit that you are using however. What grit do you use? My go to is Polly plastics. Definitely avoid the National Geographic grit.
@@AgateAriel , sorry it took me a few days to get back to you but I had a really busy weekend.
The Rock Tumbler that I got was from Harbor Freight. It was the Chicago electric tumblers with two 3 lb barrels.
They also sell the grit and Polish prepackaged box.
The step #1 grit was 60/90 silicone carbide, The step #2 grit was 180/220 silicone carbite, The step #3 pre-polished grit was 500 silicone carbide. The step #4 was 1200 Fine Aluminum Oxide. I used their instructions and the only thing I did difference was I put borax in when I was burnishing between the different steps. I ran each step for 10 days instead of 7. Also when I would burnish I would run it for 24 hours. And also between each step I would wish down the rocks take a toothbrush or brush to clean them thoroughly and I would thoroughly clean out the barrel before vanishing and also after burnishing and everything. On their first step they didn't use any medium. Starting on the second step is when they said to add plastic to make up the difference when feeling the barrel to 2/3 or 3/4 full.
The second time I ran everything through and cleaned everything I ran the polish for 2 weeks and still didn't have much luck I had just a few rocks that came out shiny The rest had a doll look to them when dry!
I watched your whole video and I'm going to try what you did in your video and not use any plastic but will use the ceramic media instead if I get low when I go to fill the barrel because of the loss after the first grinding with grit. I'm also lengthening the time instead of 10 days I'm going to go two to three weeks. I also got the model b 15 lb tumblers Tumbler! I bought an extra barrel for it to keep separately for polishing. I'm on the polishing load with it right now and it's been running just a little over a week I'm going to leave it run for another week before cleaning everything to see how that load turns out! I did use ceramic media when tumbling with this load but on the polishing load I'm using plastic pellets! I hope that is not the problem that I'm having and that things will come out nice and shiny. I really appreciate your help I enjoy watching your videos! Thank you
Ugh after a week of polishing my rocks they came out dull and whitish. What did I do wrong?
Thanks!
Of course! Thank you so much for the super thanks! 😊
Awesome, love a good Rock Tumbling. 😀 And Love Pollyanna Plastics !!!! Only grit I use! It's interesting you used half the amount of grit I use for step 1, so I wouldn't think you used too much. Pollyanna plastics suggests you use 2 tbsp. Per pound of rock, so I typically use 6 in total for step 1 and havnt run into that issue with them sticking to the bottom.
That is really interesting! Yes for my tumbler barrel it seems that if I go over two scoops I get that problem! Also saves on the grit when you can use less as well!
@@AgateAriel oh yeah. And would make sense that the person your buying product from wants you to get through it quicker so you can purchase more, haha Thank you for all your videos, you channel inspired me to make one with my son. Also how long did the baby/mineral oil stay on your agates for? I have the similar issue where it doesn't matter how much ceramic medium I put in my agates always looked cracked once my process if finished and although it probably isn't a big deal I can definitely relate to using the oil giving you a better peace of mind because it just looks that much cleaner 😀
I have heard Dawn dish soap breaks down the barrel. Dawn is the gentlest soap next to the ivory. what do you think?
never mind, lol should have read the other comments
May rocks get a glassy shine with 1000 aluminum oxide? I can't find a finer grit in my country.
Great video! Quick question: should we weight the barrel with the water in it? I thought we just wanted the weight of the rocks and media, but maybe I am wrong :)
Just the rocks! 😊
@@AgateAriel Thanks!!
Hi hillo maam God bless you, watching from pinas setio Palanog Garita San Enrique Iloilo thx maam.
That’s awesome-thanks for watching!
😍😍 nice! Well done. 😁
Thank you so much!
After how mant tumble do the threads breakdown?"
That’s a good question-I am not sure actually!
Wow great job! So pretty ❤ I am afraid to tumble my agates lol
Haha it was scary at first because I didn’t want to ruin them but they’ve all turned out so far!
The wire mesh strainer is actually softer than the agates, so instead of getting a scratch, you're more likely to get smears of metal on your stones.
Oh that is a really good point! I haven’t noticed that yet, but will definitely switch it out if I start to see metal smears!
What kind of rock tumbler do you have or what rock tumbler do you recommend for a beginner?
Is there a rock guide video I'm so confused on the types and how to find them they almost all look the same in step one lol
ua-cam.com/video/GBsKHIymxsg/v-deo.html here’s what I do!
She’s so pretty broooo
Yup calcium is much better then boring silicon, and then carbide is carbide, calcium carbide will be great 👍
I can't find silicon carbide, so calcium carbide should work fine
need to adress the nat ego and different tumblers, I was told weeks, The speed of the tumbler was so fast i was making gems for thanos... I had to buy a adapter to lower the voltage. This made my 1 speed that was 150RPM down to a respectable 35. its gonna throw alotta peeps off.. also the importance of grit during polishing. like 1200 isn't sufficient, more like 2-14k
No 3 is good,, leav fur 1 week and 4 day 6e suces
1,200 AO is not a polish, it's a prepolish. For optimal results use a proper polish, 8,000 grit or higher.
You also forgot to subtract the weight of the water?
Just a tip: i don't know how you are doing audio but you keep fading in and out (louder then softer). It's very noticeable and detracts from your presentation. I foyu can figure out a way to stabilize this it would help.
Thank you for letting me know! How do my more recent videos sound? Any better? I have been trying out different audio things lately!
17:20 Oolitic, not ootilitic 😉
The cause was not the grit, but to soft Stones in the first week
👌👌👌👍👍👍👏👏👏👏
I was thinking about buying me a tumbler and tumble some rocks but after watching you I've decided I no longer want to. That's just too much of a hassle.
Haha glad I could help!
I honestly did not see 'new' content.
dry polish causes rocks to crack? yeah, no.
Maybe I didn’t explain that right. When left over polish remains in the microscopic cracks in your rocks, it will expand making the cracks larger and more noticeable. Hope that helps!
Beautiful new suscriptor
Thanks for subbing!