Drilling ceramics

Jewelry Discussion
1

Dear Orchidians,

Its quite a while since I wrote last for a bench query. This time I
want you to help me find a good drilling tip to make a small hole in
a ceramic figure to place in it a small diamond. I would think a
carbide drill tip would do but I would rather look for another
opinion from you out there!

Bye for now and thanks anyhow.
JOSEPH TANTI
http://jostanti.cjb.net

2

Joseph,

I doubt that a carbide tip will drill ceramic! You are talking
about a material that is or approaches a 7 in hardness. The only
way you can drill it is to use a diamond drill. If you only plan
on one or two holes, check out Harbor Freight or even your local
flea market. Many tools vendors sell the diamond plated bits that
are just fine for a hole or two.

Be sure to keep the drilling site wet, preferably under water, to
keep it

cool and clean.

Cheers from Don at The Charles Belle Studio in SOFL where simple
elegance IS fine jewelry! dcdietz@ comcast.net

3

I would use only diamond as the carbide bud drill will probably chip
the ceramic. Use the drill slowly and always use water.

robert

4 
    Its quite a while since I wrote last for a bench query. This
time I want you to help me find a good drilling tip to make a small
hole in a ceramic figure to place in it a small diamond.

Hello Joseph.

Use a diamond drill instead. Mark the spot and make a “divot” in the
glaze with a small diamond ball bit (or twist a diamond scribe tip
to accomplish the same thing.)

Arrange a stable support for the figure with the area to be drilled
uppermost. Build a “tinker’s dam” of clay around the site to hold a
bit of water to cool the drill as you work.

Start the drill before placing it in the divot. Lift the drill out
of the hole every few seconds to clear the bit and keep it cool.

Work to the depth you need or if you plan to pierce the piece
completely, slow the drilling process as you approach the other side
so as to avoid cracking or chipping as you break through. Gluing a
small bit of wood to the exit area will also protect that surface.

Please let us see your project when it’s done.

Pam Chott
www.songofthephoenix.com