Polishing Perfection: Secrets of a Rock Tumbling Champion

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Curious about what it takes to become a champion rock tumbler? In this fun and insightful video, Sam Cook, the winner of the 2022 Worldwide Rock Tumbling Contest, walks us through his journey from raw rock to a polished masterpiece that earned him the top prize.

The Worldwide Rock Tumbling Contest is hosted by the Feather River Lapidary and Mineral Society, and in 2022 the contest featured Lahontan Agate from Nevada—rocks that are notorious for being difficult to tumble.

In this video, Rob from Michigan Rocks interviews Sam, who shares tips on grinding, cutting, and tumbling, providing helpful advice for rock tumbling enthusiasts. You’ll see some of the obstacles they face, from navigating rocks with imperfections to ensuring the final polish is perfect.

One of the most interesting insights from Sam is the value of patience. His rocks tumbled for months, and he wasn’t afraid to put in extra time to make sure they were polished to perfection. In the end, Sam’s meticulous approach paid off, earning him first place—and a trophy made from the very rock he tumbled.

If you’ve ever wondered what goes into winning a rock tumbling contest or are just looking to improve your own tumbling skills, this video is packed with tips and lessons. Don’t miss the behind-the-scenes look at what it takes to go from rough stone to shining gem—and maybe get inspired to enter a contest yourself!

Learn more about The Worldwide Rock Tumbling Contest.

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