Polishing and ultrasonic

Jewelry Discussion
1

Regarding the polishing problems on the current list, is one of
the functions of an ultrasonic cleaner to erase traces of bobbing
or white diamond before using tripoli, or between tripoli and
rouge? I would find that very useful, but have not yet bought an
ultrasonic cleaner because I have not yet learned if I could
depend on it for that purpose. Would appreciate responses from
people who have used it for this purpose.

Thanks - Sue Danehy
No lasting snow yet in Northern New York

2

Sue, You can use an ultrasonic cleaner at any time, it doesn’t
matter what type of polishing compound you have been using. There
are some stones that you should not put in an ultrasonic, emerald
comes to mind, but there are others too. Joel
@schwalbstudio http://www.schwalbstudio.com

3 
  Regarding the polishing problems on the current list, is one
of the functions of an ultrasonic cleaner to erase traces of
bobbing or white diamond before using tripoli, or between
tripoli and rouge

Ultrasonics work great for removing polishing compounds in fact
they sell solutions for just that purpose. They are a must for
jewelry repair as you want the piece really clean before putting
a torch to it. Ultrasonics have a tendency to shake loose stones
out of their settings so always check the bottom of the tank.
After the pieces come out of the ultrasonic a steamer will
remove any remaining dirt especially with diamonds etc. Ed

4

After lots of experimenting, I have found a great non-ammonia
formula for removing buffing compound in an ultrasonic – just a
squirt of Dawn dishwashing detergent and a shot of Pine-Sol
(containing pine oil) in some warm water. Works wonders. Even
better than the buffing compound remover (the pink stuff) I
bought elsewhere. Of course, it’s not as fast as ammonia, but it
doesn’t make those wavy lines on the metal after long periods of
cleaning either.

Happy Holidays!
Marlo M.

5

Hi Marlo I know this is a very belated question, but being our summer
holidays here in Australia, I have been away. I am interested in
your formula of Dawn Dishwashing liquid which we also have here, and
Pine Sol. Now what kind of cleaner is this? Perhaps you could
elaborate and I could work out our equivalent product. Many thanks
Christel