Richard Friesen, a frequent contributor to Rock and Gem magazine as well as a noted lapidary, has graciously consented to my publishing here some articles he has posted from time to time in the Lapidary Digest and various online forums. The advice he gives is based largely on his own extensive personal experience.

Report from Quartzite and Tucson Arizona: February 2001

Gem Polishing Compounds and their Action on Various Stones

Polishing Pads and Points- The Best Material for the Best Effect

Speed and Polish- How Fast to Go

Nephrite, Asbestos, and Rock Dust- Safety Factors in Lapidary Work

Polishing Jade

Polishing Rhodonite

Polishing Obsidian

Polishing Charoite