Tumbled stones are created through a process called tumbling, where rough gemstones are placed in a machine that rotates them with abrasives and polishing agents. This process smooths and polishes the stones, giving them a glossy and tactile finish. The process of tumbling gemstones can take many hours to weeks depending on the Mohs hardness of the gemstone, the original shape of the pieces and the desired finished result.
Why are tumbled stones so cheap?
Tumbled stones are often more affordable compared to larger gemstones, natural formations and beads for several reasons.
- Availability: Tumbled stones are generally made from more common or abundant gemstone materials. These materials are easier to source and are acquired in larger quantities, which helps keep the cost down.
- Manufacturing Process: Tumbling is a relatively cost-effective method of polishing stones. The process involves placing rough stones in a tumbling machine with abrasives and polishing agents, which can be done on a large scale with minimal staffing. This mass production process helps reduce the overall cost of each tumbled stone.
- Size and Weight: Tumbled stones are smaller and lighter compared to larger gemstones. The reduced size and weight contribute to lower material and shipping costs.
- Global Demand: Tumbled stones have a broader market appeal due to their affordability, versatility, and accessibility. They cater to a wide range of individuals, from crystal enthusiasts and collectors to those who are new to the world of gemstones. The larger market demand for tumbled stones allows for economies of scale and competitive pricing.
- Less Human Input: Gemstone beads require a lot of manual labour, from the drilling to the faceting, the grading and sizing to the threading for sale. Tumbled stones require none of this labour and attention to detail. This helps keep the prices of tumbled stones much lower than other gemstone forms.
It’s important to note that while tumbled stones may be more affordable, their value and significance are not solely determined by their price. Each tumbled stone carries its own energetic properties and can be equally meaningful and beneficial in various practices such as crystal healing, meditation, or spiritual work.
How to use tumbled stones for healing
Tumbled stones are widely used for their metaphysical properties and are believed to hold various energetic qualities. Each type of stone is said to have its own unique energy, which can be used for healing, meditation, spiritual practices, or simply as decorative items. They are often used in crystal healing and energy work to balance and align the body’s energy centres, known as chakras.
It’s important to research the particular gemstone you’re investigating to discover it’s unique properties, metaphysical properties and healing powers.
What stones are tumbled?
Tumbled stones come in a vast array of gemstone varieties, including quartz, amethyst, jasper, agate, aventurine, and many others. They are available in different sizes and shapes, making them suitable for a wide range of applications. Some people enjoy carrying tumbled stones in their pockets or placing them in their living spaces to benefit from their energy. Others incorporate them into jewellery-making, crafting, or as part of crystal grids and altars.
Some gemstones can’t be tumbled for a variety of reasons. Some crystals are simply too rare or valuable, the available pieces may be too small, or the stone could be too soft or fibrous to survive the tumbling process.
How to make tumbled stones shiny
If you have a tumbled stone that is more matte in appearance, this may be the way it was produced, the type of gemstone or it could be from a lot of handling over a long period of time. It is possible to make these stones shiny, in most cases. To make tumbled stones shiny, you can try to follow these simple steps:
- Clean the stones: Before polishing, ensure that the tumbled stones are clean and free from any dirt or debris. Rinse them with water and gently scrub them with a soft brush or toothbrush to remove any surface impurities.
- Choose a polishing method: There are different methods you can use to achieve a shiny finish on tumbled stones. Here are a few options:
- Polishing cloth: One simple method is to use a soft polishing cloth. Rub the stones vigorously with the cloth in a circular motion to bring out their natural shine. This method works well for softer stones like quartz.
- Polishing compound: Another option is to use a polishing compound specifically designed for gemstones. Apply a small amount of the compound onto a soft cloth or buffing wheel and gently rub the stones, moving in a back-and-forth or circular motion. This method is more effective for harder stones like agate or jasper.
- Tumbler: If you have a rock tumbler, you can place the tumbled stones back into the tumbler barrel with polishing grit or polishing compound. Let the tumbler run for several hours or days, depending on the desired level of shine. This method is more time-consuming but can yield excellent results.
- Rinse and dry: After polishing, rinse the stones with water to remove any residual polishing compound or grit. Dry them thoroughly with a soft cloth to reveal their shiny finish.
- Optional: For an extra layer of shine and protection, you can apply a thin coat of clear nail polish or jewellery sealant to the tumbled stones. This can help maintain their shine and prevent oxidation or tarnish.
Remember to be gentle when polishing tumbled stones, especially softer or more delicate varieties. It’s always a good idea to test a small area or consult specific instructions for the type of stone you are working with to ensure the best results.
What are tumbled stones used for?
Tumbled stones have a variety of uses and applications. Our customers love to wire wrap tumbled stones, make micro macrame cages or use wire spring cages to turn them into a pendant, or simply collect them for their natural beauty. Looking into a crystal and admiring the natural beauty and individuality of a tumbled stone can be intriguing, fascinating and relaxing.
There are many other practical uses for tumbled gemstones as you’ll see here:
- Crystal Healing: Tumbled stones are often used in crystal healing practices. Each stone is believed to carry specific energetic properties and vibrations that can be beneficial for balancing, energizing, or calming the body, mind, and spirit. They are used in various ways, such as placing them on specific body parts, creating crystal grids, or carrying them in a pocket or pouch.
- Meditation: Tumbled stones can be utilised during meditation to enhance focus, intention, and spiritual connection. Many people hold or place specific stones in their meditation space to create a serene and energetically supportive environment.
- Chakra Balancing: Tumbled stones are associated with the body’s energy centres, known as chakras. Each stone is believed to correspond to a particular chakra, and they can be used to balance and align these energy centres. Placing tumbled stones on or around the body’s chakras during energy healing practices is a common technique.
- Jewellery Making: Tumbled stones are frequently incorporated into jewellery designs. They can be wire-wrapped, set in metal findings, or held in cages to be worn on necklaces and bracelets. Tumbled stones add natural beauty, colour, and energetic properties to jewellery pieces, allowing individuals to wear them as personal talismans or adornments.
- Decorative and Crafting Purposes: Tumbled stones are used for decorative and crafting purposes as well. They can be placed in bowls, vases, or terrariums to create visually appealing displays. Tumbled stones are also incorporated into various crafting projects such as mosaics, art pieces, and home decor items.
- Collecting and Display: Tumbled stones are collected and displayed by crystal enthusiasts and collectors. Many people appreciate the beauty and uniqueness of tumbled stones, and they enjoy curating collections that reflect their personal interests and spiritual journey.
One of the appealing aspects of tumbled stones is their affordability and accessibility. They are relatively inexpensive compared to larger or rarer gemstones, making them accessible to individuals who wish to explore the world of crystals and gemstones without a significant investment.
Whether you are drawn to their beauty, metaphysical properties, or their tactile nature, tumbled stones offer a convenient and versatile way to incorporate the energy of gemstones into your life.
Where to buy tumbled stones in Brisbane
If you’re looking for a fantastic selection of tumbled gemstones and crystals, look no further than Beads N Crystals at Annerley. Browse the full collection and select the tumbled stones you’re drawn to. Buying tumbled stones can be an interesting process. Whether you believe in the power of crystals and gemstone properties or not, you’ll find yourself admiring a single specific stone amongst a pile of the same type. Some say the crystal chooses you, others say they’re spiritually drawn to a stone. Whatever the reason, it’s quite amazing to experience.
Of course, we also cater for tumbled stone collectors across Australia via our online store. We do our best to select a stone for you that we feel is beautiful, powerful and unique. When selecting stones for online orders, we select them with the same level of care that we would if we were selecting for ourselves.
