Tin Laps – High-Gloss Polishing Laps for Faceted Gemstones

Tin polishing laps are the preferred choice for achieving a high-gloss mirror finish on faceted gemstones. The hard, dense tin surface charges with ultra-fine diamond compound to deliver exceptional brilliance on corundum-group minerals including sapphire and ruby, as well as other hard stones requiring a bright, reflective polish.

Related Collections

• Zinc Laps
• Copper Laps
• Phenolic Laps
• Sintered Faceting Laps
• Standard Faceting Laps
• All Polishing Laps

Frequently Asked Questions

• Q: Why are tin laps preferred for sapphire and ruby?
  A: Tin laps are harder than zinc or copper laps, which makes them ideal for polishing very hard minerals like sapphire (Mohs 9) and ruby. The hard surface combined with ultra-fine diamond compound produces the bright, mirror-quality finish required for faceted corundum.
• Q: What diamond compound grit should I use on a tin lap?
  A: For final polish on hard stones, use 0.1–1 micron diamond paste on a tin lap. Coarser grits (3–6 micron) can be used for pre-polish stages before switching to a finer compound for the final finish.
• Q: Can I use a tin lap for cabochon polishing?
  A: Tin laps are primarily designed for faceting work but can be used for flat-surface cabochon polishing on hard stones. For curved cabochon surfaces, a phenolic or leather lap may be more suitable.
• Q: How do I maintain a tin lap?
  A: Clean the tin lap with water after each use to remove compound residue. Store flat to prevent warping. Re-charge with fresh diamond compound as needed for consistent polish results.
• Q: What sizes are tin laps available in?
  A: Tin laps are available in standard 6-inch and 8-inch diameters to fit most faceting machines. Browse Tin Laps →