8 best rock polishers

Rock polishers, also known as rock tumblers, are educational and recreational devices related to science kits, toys, and learning and education products. They are used to transform rough and unpolished stones or rocks into smooth, polished gemstones or decorative items. Here's what you should know about rock polishers:

  1. Purpose: Rock polishers are primarily used for polishing and shaping various types of rocks and gemstones. They are commonly used by hobbyists, rock collectors, and those interested in earth sciences.

  2. Components: A typical rock polisher consists of a barrel or drum, which is loaded with rocks, abrasive grit, and water. The barrel is mounted on a base with an electric motor that rotates the drum.

  3. Tumbling Process: The rock polishing process, also known as tumbling, involves placing rough stones or rocks in the barrel along with abrasive grit. The barrel is sealed, and the motor is turned on, causing the barrel to rotate continuously. Over a period of several weeks, the rocks inside the barrel undergo a series of grinding, smoothing, and polishing stages.

  4. Abrasive Grit: Different stages of the tumbling process use different types of abrasive grit, starting with coarse grit and gradually progressing to finer grits. This helps to gradually smooth and polish the rocks.

  5. Water: Water is added to the barrel to facilitate the grinding and polishing process and to prevent overheating. It also helps carry away the debris generated during tumbling.

  6. Types of Rocks: Rock polishers can be used with a variety of rocks, including quartz, agate, jasper, and other semi-precious stones.The choice of rocks can affect the final appearance and quality of the polished stones.

  7. Safety: While rock polishers are generally safe to use, it's essential to follow safety guidelines, including proper ventilation and eye protection, when working with abrasive grit and rotating machinery.

  8. Educational Value: Rock tumblers are often included in science kits and educational toys to teach kids about geology, mineralogy, and the process of erosion and rock formation. They offer a hands-on way to explore earth sciences.

  9. End Products: The end result of the tumbling process is a collection of polished gemstones or decorative rocks that can be used in jewelry making, crafting, or as collectibles.

  10. Availability: Rock polishers can be found in science kit stores, toy stores, and online retailers that specialize in educational and hobbyist products.

In summary, rock polishers, or rock tumblers, are educational and recreational devices that allow users to transform rough and unpolished rocks into smooth, polished gemstones. They are popular among hobbyists, rock collectors, and those interested in earth sciences as they offer an engaging way to learn about geology and mineralogy while creating beautiful and decorative items.

Below you can find our editor's choice of the best rock polishers on the market
  

NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC Hobby Rock Tumbler Kit - Includes Rough Gemstones, 4 Polishing Grits, Jewelry Fastenings and Detailed Learning Guide - Great STEM Science Kit for Mineralogy and Geology Enthusiasts

Based on 12 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Learn about the exciting hobby of rock tumbling with National Geographic!



Rock tumbling is tons of fun and a great way to start a beautiful rock collection.



This set includes all the accessories you’ll need to start polishing dazzling gems.



Kids can use the included jewelry fastening to create beautiful homemade jewelry!



Contents and Features:



• High-quality tumbling machine with powerful motor that will last for years

• Automatic shutoff timer so you can set it and forget it

• Noise reducing leak-proof barrel with stainless steel lid

• Half pound of gemstones from around the world (9 types) and four grades of grit

• Jewelry fastenings so you can create your own unique jewelry

• Full-color information guide with cool facts about each of the gemstones included

• Easy-to-follow rock tumbling instructions

• 2-year manufacturer warranty



Rock tumbling is a fun activity for children of all ages and promotes an interest in geology and science.



Introduce your kid to science the fun way! Join National Geographic as we inspire future generations by showing them the wonders of the natural world.



National Geographic Toys is proud to provide a 100% satisfaction guarantee with all our products so that you can buy with confidence.



About the National Geographic Society: With a mission to inspire people to care about the planet, the 126-year-old National Geographic Society is one of the world’s largest nonprofit scientific and educational organizations.



National Geographic’s net proceeds support vital exploration, conservation, research, and education programs.

  • CREATE YOUR OWN GEMSTONES - Make any stone sparkle and polish everyday rocks into dazzling gemstones! This rock tumbler kit makes it fun and easy to turn rough rocks into beautifully polished gemstones, thanks to its simple operation and durable design.
  • A TUMBLER THAT'S MADE TO LAST – Our high-quality tumblers are made with a durable motor that’s designed to last for years. The leakproof rubber barrel reduces sound, making it 75% quieter than other plastic models. An excellent STEM activity for kids.
  • A COMPLETE HOBBY TUMBLING KIT - Everything you need to create polished gemstones: the tumbler, four polishing grits, sifter, nine types of real rough gemstones, plus a detailed full-color learning guide. Makes a great gift for girls and boys!
  • EASY TO USE – Simple instructions and one-touch settings make rock tumbling fun and easy. Control the number of days for each tumbling cycle with the one-touch timer and automatic shutoff feature, set it and forget it! This is a great gift for kids.
  • SATISFACTION GUARANTEED – The National Geographic STEM series provides kids high-quality educational toys that are a whole lot of fun! If your experience is anything less than extraordinary, let us know so we can make it right for you.

User questions & answers

Question: Can i buy extra grit without the rocks. we have many rocks from "mining" gemstones that i would love to polish. what do you recommend
Answer: Hello, currently, our GUI app can only run on Linux and Windows platforms. We are developing an Android app, it will be released in two months. THX!
Question: What pound tumbler is this product
Answer: Hello, RaspTank does not include the Raspberry Pi board, you need to buy the Raspberry Pi yourself. You can connect the keyboard and mouse directly to the Raspberry Pi to program. You can also use the PC to connect to the Raspberry Pi to program via ssh.
Question: What the difference between this and the starter kit
Answer: YES.
Question: What is the power consumption of this unit over a week of continuous use? (in usa on 110v). thank you
Answer: Yes, it can turn left and right. The calibration wasn't exactly straight forward but after a few tries was able to find and acceptable 'straight' setting and it drives okay. Speed is normal RC car speed, slightly faster than human walking so maybe 5-10 mph tops. The lag between the app and the car is a bit of a problem and at higher speeds you end up running into stuff a lot.

Advanced Professional Rock Tumbler Kit - with Digital 9-day Polishing timer & 3 speed settings - Turn Rough Rocks into Beautiful Gems : Great Science & STEM Gift for Kids all ages : Geology Toy

Based on 3 reviews Check latest price
  • Turn rough rocks into polished gems: Discover and learn the fun process of rock tumbling with the Advanced Rock Tumbler. Pour in the rough stones and grit and let the machine do its job.
  • Complete kit: Includes: rock tumbler machine, low-noise barrel (1 lb. capacity), 4 grit packets, 1/2 lb. assorted rough rocks, mesh strainer, jewelry fasteners, gem storage bag, and an illustrated easy-to-follow instruction and learning guide.
  • Powerful quality: Runs on a powerful heavy duty motor that will last for a very long time, and includes a leak-resistant barrel that runs quieter than the other brands.
  • Advanced features: Includes speed controls (providing more granular tumbling results), a 9-day timer (shuts off automatically when you desire), all displayed on beautiful LCD screens.
  • A fun and educational gift for all ages: It's not often that a science project can be fun and engaging, but this kit achieves both! It fascinates children and adults as soon as they pull it out of the box and is a perfect STEM project for any age. It fosters a love for science, geology and mineralogy in a fun and exciting way.

User questions & answers

Question: Mine didn't come with an instruction booklet. Where can i find one online or request one
Answer: Hello, The Hobby Rock Tumbler can hold 1lb of rocks. Comparably, the Professional Series Tumbler can hold 2lbs. Thank you for your inquiry, National Geographic Toys Customer Support
Question: I get an error code everytime I try and run it doesn't anyone know why? I hardly have anything in it
Answer: There are two main differences:The Hobby Rock Tumbler has a rubber tumbling barrel with a stainless steel cap, which reduces noise and is more durable. The Starter Kit Rock Tumbler has a plastic barrel. The Hobby Rock Tumbler also has a keypad for setting the number of days you would like it to tumble, where as the Starter Kit Rock Tumbler's setting options are on/off. Thank you for your inquiry.
Question: what is the warranty for and how long is it
Answer: This takes .3 Amps, so (watts = amps x volts) OR watts = .3 x 110 which equals33 watts. Now for one week would equal 33 watts x 7 days x 24 hours =5544 watts or 5.54 kilowatts for one week.At $.16 per kilowatt it comes to $.89 per week.
Question: Can you confirm the voltage rating of the power cord? only 110v or up to 240v? thank you
Answer: Hello, you should run code/server/sever.py on the Raspberry Pi and code/Client/RaspTank.py on the PC(Windows or Ubuntu Linux). Please refer to these two videos: https://www.adeept.com/video/detail-70.html https://www.adeept.com/video/detail-53.html If you have other questions, please contact Adeept support Team by Email.

Product features

ABOUT US:

We are Dan & Darci!

As you can tell from our name, we think that two is better than one. That’s why we create quality toys and science kits that are BOTH entertaining AND educational.

Our lab of mad scientists develop the coolest products — because they know that while you love to grow your brains and be the smartest one in the room, you’re only going to do it if you’re having fun!

Unique Gift Idea

Although this is extraordinarily educational, it’s also wildly entertaining for all ages, which makes it an excellent gift!

It’s not often that a science project can be fun and engaging, but this kit hits the nail on the head and fascinates children and adults as soon as they pull it out of the box.

Perfect STEM Project

Whether you’re a parent or a schoolteacher, you’ll quickly appreciate the vast knowledge that this can provide.

While being super fun and engaging, this one product provides young students with that essential hands-on experience they need to truly absorb this priceless knowledge and information.

Complete Kit

Everything is included - just add water!

Includes:

  • Rock Tumbler Machine and Barrel
  • 0.5 lb Assorted Rough Rocks
  • 4 Grit Packets
  • Mesh Strainer
  • Jewelry Fasteners
  • Rocks Storage Bag
  • Learning Guide

Illustrated Learning Booklet

Easy step-by-step instructions so that everyone can follow along easily.

Also included is a comprehensive learning guide on the history of rock tumbling, and explanation of all the rocks included in the kit.

NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC Starter Rock Tumbler Kit - Rock Polisher for Kids and Adults, Complete Rock Tumbler Kit, Durable Leak-Proof Tumbler, Rocks, Grit, and 5 Jewelry Fastenings, A Great STEM Hobby

NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC

Based on 4 reviews Check latest price
  • CREATE YOUR OWN GEMSTONES - Rock tumbling is a hugely popular hobby for kids and adults! This starter rock tumbler makes it fun and easy to turn rough rocks into beautifully polished gemstones, thanks to its simple operation and durable design.
  • A TUMBLER THAT'S MADE TO LAST - The durable motor allows you to tumble multiple batches of rocks. An improved, leak-proof barrel is lined with rubber for quieter operation while tumbling on the sturdy tumbler base.
  • ALL-IN-ONE TUMBLING KIT - This kit has everything you need and then some! You get ½ a pound of rough rocks with nine different types of gemstones inside, five jewelry fastenings, and our four-stage rock polishing grit.
  • EASY TO USE AND EDUCATIONAL - Detailed tumbler instructions lead you step-by-step through the rock tumbling process, A full-color learning guide details how rocks are naturally polished and has fascinating facts about the gemstones in the kit.
  • SATISFACTION GUARANTEED – The National Geographic STEM series provides kids high-quality educational toys that are a whole lot of fun! If your experience is anything less than extraordinary, let us know so we can make it right for you.

User questions & answers

Question: Can't open
Answer: Don't put more than a pound of rocks in it or the motor won't be able to turn. Does it turn without the tumbler? Then that is likely the problem. Otherwise contact the manufacturer. That may not be easy as it's Chinese I think.
Question: How many pounds/ounces of rocks can you put into the barrel with grit for tumbling
Answer: I don’t think there is a warranty for it. However, if it’s defective call the company. They seem to be really good at doing the right thing
Question: Where can I buy more grit
Answer: The power supply will work with 100-240v. It has a US plug.
Question: Can this be used to tumble glass to make sea glass
Answer: grit is available on the Amazon site....I bought extra when I bought the tumbler :)

NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC Rock Tumbler Kit-3LB Extra Large Capacity, 3LB Rough Gemstones, 4 Polishing Grits, Jewelry Fastenings, STEM Science Kit for Boys and Girls,

Based on 645 reviews Check latest price
  • CREATE YOUR OWN GEMSTONES - Rock tumbling is a hugely popular hobby for kids and adults! This professional rock tumbler makes it fun and easy to turn rough rocks into beautifully polished gemstones, thanks to its simple operation and durable design.
  • A TUMBLER THAT'S MADE TO LAST - The durable motor has time and speed control settings so you can set it, and forget it. An improved, leak-proof barrel features a stainless-steel lid is 75% quieter overall than plastic tumbler barrels.
  • ALL-IN-ONE TUMBLING KIT - This kit has everything you need and then some! You get three pounds of rough rocks with nine different types of gemstones inside, five jewelry fastenings, grit, a strainer, and our innovative new GemFoam rock polisher.
  • USE GEMFOAM FOR DAZZLING RESULTS - This rock tumbler kit stands apart from others thanks to our new, reusable GemFoam rock polisher! Add GemFoam and water to the barrel after your final tumbling stage and your gems will have incredible shine!
  • SATISFACTION GUARANTEED – The National Geographic STEM series provides kids high-quality educational toys that are a whole lot of fun! If your experience is anything less than extraordinary, let us know so we can make it right for you.
  • Power source type: Battery Powered

Leegol Electric Hobby Rock Tumbler Machine - Single Drum 3LB Rotary Rock Polisher (Single Barrel)

Based on 803 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Specifications:



Motor: 120V/60Hz Barrel Capacity: 3LB

Material: sheet metal ,rubber

Five more v-belt

Easy-to-follow rock tumbling instructions

Noise reducing leak-proof barrel with aluminum lid

High-quality tumbling machine with powerful motor that will last for years



Explanation:



The motion in the barrel of the Tumbler simulates the natural action of flowing water or ocean waves. Beaches and riverbeds contain rocks and pebbles smoothed by water and the abrasive sand it carries. As rocks grind upon one another with constant water and sand in the mix, they begin to round and smooth. Although this is a constant process, it does not however, naturally polish the rocks



The Tumbler uses an abrasive media instead of sand. It is graded by grain size, from fine powder sized grains, up to large sized grains. By changing (usually by weekly intervals) the grain size, rotating from coarse, medium, to fine, the rock or gemstone is smoothed much more quickly than the natural process



To polish using a Tumbler, add a metallic oxide compound (not included). The complete process for a gemstone or rock to go from rough to smooth, polished finish, usually takes 4-6 weeks



Great way to start a rock collection:



Rock tumbling is a fun activity for children of all ages and promotes an interest in geology and science. Introduce your kid to science the fun way.



100% Satisfaction Guaranteed – With a manufacturer warranty you can be sure you will get a quality gift.



  • Packaging List: Includes tumbler, 0.5lbs of walnut shell media, five v-belt, and instructions.
  • Power Adapter: 120V/60Hz Barrel Capacity: 3LB (Rubber tumbler barrel allows for quieter operation).
  • Professional Features: This high-quality tumbler has a powerful motor, the design allows it to run for days at a time to ensure a smooth finish!
  • Perfect for Beginners: Easy to use, to polish rocks or metal parts, simply add a media and let the self-rotating tumbler do all the work for you.
  • 100% Satisfaction Guaranteed: With a manufacturer warranty you can be sure you will get a quality gift.If you get a poor rock tumbler,contact with us,we will supply a new one.

User questions & answers

Question: What is the walnut shell media for
Answer: It is a set of 2 bulbs.
Question: Can you reuse the walnut shell media
Answer: As long as your truck requires 9006
Question: Can Petoskey stones be tumbled
Answer: Yes thay are very good also I have one pair extra if you like I sal to you will shipping and you pay me by paypal thanks
Question: Does it really have a lifetime warranty? I have purchased items on Amazon and elsewhere a with lifetime warranty and manufacturer ignores all requests
Answer: Really white , similar to oem Audi lights. HIDs are better imo

Leegol Electric Rotary Rock Tumbler Double Drum 6LB Lapidary Polisher (Double Drum)

Based on 595 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Specifications:



Motor: 120V/60Hz Barrel Capacity: 2×3LB

Material: sheet metal ,rubber

Five more v-belt

Easy-to-follow rock tumbling instructions

Noise reducing leak-proof barrel with aluminum lid

High-quality tumbling machine with powerful motor that will last for years



Explanation:



The motion in the barrel of the Tumbler simulates the natural action of flowing water or ocean waves. Beaches and riverbeds contain rocks and pebbles smoothed by water and the abrasive sand it carries. As rocks grind upon one another with constant water and sand in the mix, they begin to round and smooth. Although this is a constant process, it does not however, naturally polish the rocks



The Tumbler uses an abrasive media instead of sand. It is graded by grain size, from fine powder sized grains, up to large sized grains. By changing (usually by weekly intervals) the grain size, rotating from coarse, medium, to fine, the rock or gemstone is smoothed much more quickly than the natural process



To polish using a Tumbler, add a metallic oxide compound (not included). The complete process for a gemstone or rock to go from rough to smooth, polished finish, usually takes 4-6 weeks



Great way to start a rock collection:



Rock tumbling is a fun activity for children of all ages and promotes an interest in geology and science. Introduce your kid to science the fun way.



100% Satisfaction Guaranteed – With a manufacturer warranty you can be sure you will get a quality gift.



CAUTION: Not recommended for Children under 12 ages



  • Packaging List: Includes tumbler, 2×0.5lbs of walnut shell media, five v-belt, and instructions.
  • Power Adapter: 120V/60Hz Barrel Capacity: 2×3LB (Rubber tumbler barrel allows for quieter operation)
  • Professional Features: This high-quality tumbler has a powerful motor, the design allows it to run for days at a time to ensure a smooth finish!
  • Perfect for Beginners: Easy to use, to polish rocks or metal parts, simply add a media and let the self-rotating tumbler do all the work for you.
  • 100% Satisfaction Guaranteed: With a manufacturer warranty you can be sure you will get a quality gift.If you get a poor rock tumbler,contact with us,we will supply a new one.

User questions & answers

Question: The drive spindle with fan blades is broken! 2 of the blades are detached so the unit does not cool adequately. Please could you send me a replacement
Answer: Yes dot approved
Question: Is there a way to purchase a replacement seal for the barrel? I don't want to purchase a new barrel when I just need the seal
Answer: Im not sure about replacement. Iv had mine in since February. Have had no problems.
Question: Is this loud
Answer: They r bright white. If u r looking for blue lights. Look for 8000k or higher lights. But even 8000k lights aernt fully blue.
Question: Is there a 6 lb single barrel available
Answer: Don't waste your $

National Geographic Rock Tumbler Grit - 3.28 Pounds Rock Polishing Grit Media, Works with any Rock Tumbler, Rock Polisher, Stone Polisher, Polishes 8-10 Pounds of Rocks

Based on 5 reviews Check latest price
  • HIGH QUALITY – This rock polisher grit refill pack comes with enough high-quality silicon carbide grit to put a dazzling polish on approximately 8-10 lbs. of rocks, gems, glass, and more
  • EASY TO USE FOUR-STAGE ROCK GRIT - The first rock tumbling grit stage provides initial shaping, the second smooths rock surfaces, the third pre-polishes rocks, and the fourth provides the final polish
  • COMPATIBLE WITH ALL TUMBLERS - This complete 4-step rock tumbler grit refill kit works with all rock tumblers. For best results, use with National Geographic Rock Tumblers and rock tumbling supplies
  • EASY TO MEASURE AND STORE - Each rock tumbling grit stage is packaged in a wide-mouth container with secure, screw-top closure
  • SATISFACTION GUARANTEED – The National Geographic STEM series provides high-quality products that are a whole lot of fun! If your experience is anything less than extraordinary, let us know so we can make it right for you

User questions & answers

Question: Can Gemfoam be purchased separately
Answer: Each grit is a different fineness intended for a specific purpose. We do not recommend using them at the same time. We do recommend 1 TBS grit per per 1 LB rocks, at each cycle. For further information please contact us at [email protected].
Question: Can it be used together
Answer: Sold by weight. Weigh them when it ships to you.
Question: I just opened this and finished with grit one, went to put grit 2 in and bottle open and 1/2 full. How do I contact seller
Answer: 1 Coarse-16oz. 2 Medium-13oz. 3 Pre-polish-12oz. 4 Polish-11.5 oz.
Question: How many oz is in each container
Answer: Yes, you can use them in all stages. Just rinse them off between stages. If you are using fresh ceramic, be sure to run in the earlier stages so the edges are dulled before the polishing stage.

NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC Hobby Rock Tumbler Kit - Rock Polisher for Kids & Adults, Noise-Reduced Barrel, Grit, 2.5 Pounds Raw Gemstone & Jasper Mix, Great STEM Hobby Kit

Based on 939 reviews Check latest price
  • CREATE YOUR OWN GEMSTONES - Make any stone sparkle and polish everyday rocks into dazzling gemstones! This rock tumbler kit makes it fun and easy to turn rough rocks into beautifully polished gemstones, thanks to its simple operation and durable design.
  • A TUMBLER THAT'S MADE TO LAST – Our high-quality tumblers are made with a durable motor that’s designed to last for years. The leakproof rubber barrel reduces sound, making it 75% quieter than other plastic models. Makes an excellent STEM gift or activity for girls and boys!
  • ALL-IN-ONE TUMBLING KIT - This complete kit has everything you need to create polished gemstones. In addition to the tumbler, four polishing grits, sifter, and rough gemstones, this bundle includes refill packs with 1lb each of rough gemstones and rough jasper. Learn all about the gemstones in your kit with the detailed, full-color learning guide.
  • EASY TO USE – Simple instructions and one-touch settings make rock tumbling fun and easy. Control the number of days for each tumbling cycle with the one-touch timer and automatic shutoff feature, so you can set it and forget it. This is a great gift for kids!
  • SATISFACTION GUARANTEED – The National Geographic STEM series provides kids high-quality educational toys that are a whole lot of fun! If your experience is anything less than extraordinary, let us know so we can make it right for you.

User questions & answers

Question: What kind of glue are you using to make the jewelry esp the ring? Tried Gorilla glue and it didn’t stick
Answer: Age 65, and it took 8-10 weeks before my nails were stronger and not splitting, cuticles were noticeably healthier and my hair looked fuller, and my skin might be benefitting, as well.
Question: is there a trick to make stones shinny
Answer: It worked for men and women both.
Question: About how long would I have to keep this running
Answer: No it only goes into your mouth.
Question: Can this be used to make rocks small enough for earring studs
Answer: It is cal. spacific, but the 6.5 is a bit bigger so it will fit and work, just might be a little loose. I don't see were they make the exact one for that caliber yet.

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