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Jade polishing is a critical process that transforms roughly worked jade pieces into smooth, glossy, and translucent finished products, directly impacting the visual appeal and texture of the final item. The core steps can be divided into the following stages:

Surface Trimming

Use power tools (e.g., diamond burrs) for initial shaping of the edges and to remove burs and sharp edges left from carving.

Perform detailed grinding using diamond needle files or sandpaper (ranging from 600# to 2000# grit) to ensure no significant scratches remain on the surface.

Cleaning and Dust Removal

Remove surface dust using a soft brush or an ultrasonic cleaner to prevent impurities from affecting subsequent polishing.

Core Polishing Steps

Coarse Grinding (1000-2000 Grit Wheels)

Apply 5000-grit diamond compound (diamond powder) and perform large-area grinding using wheels or sandpaper to initially create a uniform sheen.

Fine Grinding (1600-3000 Grit Sandpaper)

Switch to finer grit wheels or sandpaper, focusing on detailed areas like recesses and crevices. Use tools like bamboo sticks or toothpicks dipped in diamond powder or compound for precision grinding.

Fine Polishing (5000-10000 Grit Diamond Compound)

Repeatedly rub the surface with cowhide, elephant hide, or a stiff brush dipped in diamond powder or compound until a mirror finish is achieved. Cowhide is commonly used domestically (e.g., China), while elephant hide is often preferred in Myanmar. The fundamental principle is to progress sequentially from coarser to finer abrasives during grinding and polishing.

Post-Treatment Stage

Cleaning

Use an ultrasonic cleaner to remove residual polishing compound. Hard-to-reach corners can be wiped with alcohol-soaked cotton swabs.

Waxing for Protection

Evenly apply stone wax to the heated jade surface. After cooling, wipe it with a cotton cloth to form a waterproof and anti-stain protective layer while enhancing the luster.

Special Techniques and Considerations

Manual vs. Mechanical Polishing Selection

Plain jade items (e.g., jade bracelets) are suitable for manual polishing. Complex carvings (e.g., Guanyin statues) can be processed in batches using vibrating tumblers, typically taking about 3-7 days.

Machine polishing is efficient but can easily damage fine details. Manual polishing is more meticulous but time-consuming (potentially taking weeks).

Polishing Compound Selection

For jade types such as Jadeite, Hetian Jade, Agate, Burmese Jade, Glazed Jade, and Turquoise, diamond powder or diamond compound is recommended. Typically, use W3.5 (~6000 grit) for medium polishing to achieve a standard glossy finish, followed by W1.5 (~10000 grit) for high-precision polishing to achieve a mirror finish (high-gloss, translucent effect).

Luster Control

Hard Brightness: High gloss with strong reflection, suitable for modern styles.

Gel Brightness: A satin or matte finish, often used for antique-style jade pieces.

Factors Affecting Polishing Results

Jade Material Characteristics: Fibrous structures (e.g., Hetian Jade) are easier to polish, while granular structures (e.g., some types of Jadeite) present more difficulty.

Tool Selection: Rubber polishing heads are suitable for curved surfaces, felt wheels are used for large flat areas, and bamboo tools are ideal for handling fine details.