Diamond Spherical Grinding Wheels

Precision electroplated diamond spherical radius grinding wheels designed for shaping concave surfaces, cabochon domes, and curved stone profiles. Electroplated diamond abrasive permanently bonded to a rigid steel hub delivers smooth, chatter-free cutting action across the full curved face. Available in 6" and 8" diameters with a standard 1" arbor bore (includes precision bushing reducers for 1/2", 3/4", and 5/8" shafts), in grits from 60 coarse shaping through 600 pre-polish smoothing.

Available Sizes & Pricing

Diameter Width Arbor Grit Range Price
6" 1-1/2" 1" (bushings included) 60 – 600 $70.00
8" 1-1/2" 1" (bushings included) 60 – 600 $90.00

Grit Selection Guide

Grit Stage Application
60 – 80 Rough shaping Aggressive material removal, initial dome forming
100 – 180 Medium shaping Refining dome profile, removing coarse scratches
220 – 320 Fine shaping Smoothing surface, preparing for pre-polish
600 Pre-polish Final smoothing before polishing pads

Compatible Applications

  • Lapidary cabochon shaping — doming agate, jasper, obsidian, turquoise
  • Concave surface carving on gemstones and decorative stone
  • Glass carving and curved surface grinding
  • Ceramic and porcelain radius grinding
  • Fits standard 1" arbor bench grinders and lapidary machines (includes bushing reducers for 1/2", 3/4", and 5/8" shafts)

Related Tools

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Q: What is a spherical grinding wheel used for in lapidary?
    A: A spherical (radius) grinding wheel has a curved face profile that grinds concave surfaces and dome shapes into stone. It is the primary tool for shaping cabochon domes on agate, jasper, and other lapidary materials, creating smooth, uniform convex curves across the stone in consistent passes.
  • Q: What grit spherical wheel should I start with for cabochon shaping?
    A: Start with 60 or 80 grit for rough shaping and fast stock removal, then progress to 100–180 grit to refine the dome contour, 220–320 grit to remove scratches, and finish with 600 grit before moving to resin soft wheels or smoothing pads.
  • Q: What is the difference between 6" and 8" spherical wheels?
    A: The 6" wheel is ideal for smaller stones and tighter dome radii, while the 8" wheel provides a broader grinding surface for larger cabochons and faster production. Both fit standard 1" shafts and include bushing reducers for smaller machine spindles.
  • Q: Can I use a spherical grinding wheel on glass?
    A: Yes. The electroplated diamond abrasive grinds glass smoothly and cleanly. The spherical radius is ideal for sculptural glass work, curved bevels, and decorative concave shapes. Always use continuous water coolant.
  • Q: How do I maintain a diamond spherical grinding wheel?
    A: Always supply steady water coolant during operation to prevent thermal friction from stripping the electroplated bond. Clean the wheel surface periodically with a dressing stick if mineral swarf builds up.