5 Best Lapidary Saws of 2023 Reviewed
Cutting and shaping rocks, marble, and semi-precious materials is an intricate task. Naturally, you need the right tools for the purpose. A lapidary saw is one of the must-have instruments for those looking to work with semi-precious minerals, ores, and rocks. They come with a wide variety of blade offerings, and can easily cut through […]
Cutting and shaping rocks, marble, and semi-precious materials is an intricate task. Naturally, you need the right tools for the purpose.
A lapidary saw is one of the must-have instruments for those looking to work with semi-precious minerals, ores, and rocks. They come with a wide variety of blade offerings, and can easily cut through even solid rock.
However, due to the large number of options available in the market, it becomes tough to make the right choice. And, as is often the case, most users end up with a product that they don’t really need.
To ensure that the same fate doesn’t befall you, we’re here today with a list of the eight best lapidary saws in the market. What’s more, we’ve even gone ahead and added a buyers’ guide that can further aid in the task of making a choice.
Let’s cut to the chase and dive in.
What Is a Lapidary Saw?
A lapidary saw is an essential tool used to cut, shape and polish hard materials like stones and gems, a mandatory tool in jewel crafting. It has a motor-driven metal blade mounted in a frame. Lapidary saws come in a range of sizes from tabletop models to large commercial lapidary saws but the most popular type is the diamond blade saw which has, as the name suggests, diamond-coated blades for improved performance.
These saws are used to cut cabochons, faceted stones, and gemstone beads.
Best Lapidary Saws
Lapidary saws are an essential tool for gemstone cutting or polishing. They are designed to provide a precise and accurate cut while also preserving the integrity of the material. If you are looking for the best lapidary saws, then here is the list of 5 best lapidary saws that can help you get the job done:
Here is the list of the 5 best lapidary saws that you can use to cut and shape stones for jewelry making, lapidary arts, and other crafts.
1. Hi-Tech Diamond 6-inch Lapidary Trim Saw
A prime example of American craftsmanship, the 6-inch Lapidary Trim Saw from Hi-Tech Diamond is just the thing you need for cutting hard materials. Portable, smart, and accurate, this is a product that can get the job done, and fast.
- SMART SAW MACHINE: Our 6" saw machine is an American-made...
- HIGH PERFORMANCE SAW: A powerful 1/4 HP, heavy-duty,...
Why Did We Like It?
Whether you’re trying to trim semi-precious rocks, shape minerals, or cut glass, this is the ideal trim saw for all your needs. We were impressed by how easily and cleanly this product can trim facet material, and cut out cabochon preforms.
We also like that it comes with a 1/4 horsepower, heavy-duty, ball-bearing motor, which runs at variable speeds. This allows you to cut materials at any speed ranging from 800 to 3400 RPM.
What’s more, it even includes a vise, a couple of 6-inch diamond saw blades, a spray shield, and an Allen wrench. Add to this the fact that it’s made from lightweight, rust-resistant material, and you’ve got the perfect product that you can take anywhere.
Finally, we must mention the fact that this saw comes with complete written and visual instructions. This makes learning to use the product a simple process. Plus, it’s all-American, which is something we’re proud of.
What Could’ve Been Better?
We don’t like the fact that this saw can only use 6-inch blades, as this limits the usability of the product to a large extent. Plus, there’s no drain for dumping the coolant water, which means you’ll have to do it by hand.
- Built-in vise
- Variable speed motor
- Lightweight, impact-resistant design
- Highly portable product
- Uses only 6-inch blades
- No coolant drain
2. Hi-Tech Diamond 10-inch Lapidary Slab Saw
If you were impressed with the first item on the list, then you’ll love this second one. Also from the house of Hi-Tech Diamond, this is a 10-inch lapidary slab saw that’s ideal for cutting, slabbing, and sawing.
Why Did We Like It?
Just consider this: a 10-inch lapidary saw made entirely in America! That had us hooked from the very start. Simple and economical, this product is the best choice for slabbing larger materials into more manageable workpieces.
Powered by a ⅓ HP motor, it provides sufficient strength for making larger cuts and delivers a consistent speed of 1725 RPM. It also includes a vise attachment and completes written as well as visual instructions.
We were genuinely impressed with the high quality of the two 10-inch blades included in the package. It also consists of a spray shield and an Allen wrench, which means you’ll not have to worry about accessories.
And yes, we must mention that the product comes with a one-year warranty (similar to the previous item). Not that you need it for this unbreakable, impact-resistant, and rustproof unit.
What Could’ve Been Better?
The weight, which at 35 pounds, is a bit too heavy if you ask us. This, we think, takes away significantly from the portability factor of the product. Other than that, there’s nothing faulty with this device.
- Highly portable and lightweight design
- Simple to clean
- Made of unbreakable materials
- Comes with a one-year warranty
- Slightly heavy product
3. SKIL 3540-02 7-Inch Wet Tile Saw
The third spot on the list is occupied by the SKIL 3540-02, which is a 7-inch wet tile saw. Best for installing and replacing floor tiles, this is an affordable device constructed with quality materials for long-term use.
- Corrosive resistant stainless steel top supports tiles up to...
- Adjustable rip fence with miter gauge for accurate straight...
Why Did We Like It?
One of the significant problems with wet saws is that they get corroded after some time’s use. This product doesn’t have that problem, as the stainless steel tabletop works to resist corrosion even after repeated and long-term operation.
We were particularly impressed with the adjustable rip fence and miter gauge that the product comes with. This allows the users to make accurate and straight cuts, making the process of tile shaping easier.
In case you’re looking to make more complex designs, then the table can be tilted to provide 0-45 degree bevel cuts. This offers unmatched flexibility for making a wide variety of cuts that can shape tiles with impeccable precision.
Finally, the blade-cooling reservoir helps to keep the blade from heating up. Also, the regular water flow manages to keep the dust and debris to a minimum. This ensures that your work area doesn’t get dusty and dirty.
What Could’ve Been Better?
While this saw is excellent for making tile cuts, we don’t recommend it for gemstones and precious materials. Also, the blade precision levels make it a bit tough to cater to very small cuts.
- Extremely affordable product
- Best for cutting tiles
- Rustproof, stainless steel tabletop
- Blade cooling water reservoir
- Not suitable for use with gemstones
- Doesn’t allow very small cuts
4. Hi-Tech Diamond 4-inch/5-inch Lapidary Trim Saw
Next up, we have another model from Hi-Tech, this time a mini trim saw with smaller 4 and 5-inch blades. And though this model doesn’t allow for larger cuts, it’s powerful, efficient, and ideal for working with minerals, glass, and cabochon preforms.
- SMART TRIMMING MACHINE: Our powerful 4"/5" lapidary trim saw...
- HIGH PERFORMANCE: Each 4"/5" saw is installed with a...
Why Did We Like It?
The slim and compact design of the product is what attracted us to it in the first place. On closer inspection, however, we fell in love with the perfect cuts that this device allows on rocks, glass, and minerals.
The two diamond blades that come included with the product make cutting tasks, such as trimming out cabochon preforms, an easy job. Add to that the powerful ¼ HP ball-bearing motor, and you’ve got a machine that can take care of all your semi-precious cutting needs.
And we cannot fail to mention that it can cut with variable speeds, ranging from 800 RPM to 3400 RPM. This allows the user to cut materials at any speed that’s needed. We reckon that only Hi-Tech can offer such unmatched flexibility when it comes to cutting options.
The device is made of lightweight material that is impact resistant and rustproof. This gives it a long service life, and at the same time, lends it a portability feature. Plus, it comes with the usual 1-year Hi-Tech warranty so that you can have complete peace of mind.
What Could’ve Been Better?
We were a bit disheartened to find that the company had not deemed it necessary to include a drawer for collecting the mud and debris produced during sawing. Also, we’d have given this product better marks had the lid been designed to channel the water back into the well.
- Comes with two saw blades included
- Lightweight and compact build
- Made in the USA
- Variable cutting speeds
- No drawer for collecting mud and debris
- Improper lid design
5. Mini Table Jewelry Saw With Polishing Lathe
This lapidary saw from the brand ANGELLOONG is probably the best budget buy on our list. And the best thing about it is that it’s not just a trim saw but incorporates buffing, grinding, and carving functions as well. It also works as a sander, which is an added advantage.
- Mini bench polisher has a detachable, flexible 100cm shaft...
- This rock saws using a 110 Volt, 200 power motor, no loss of...
Why Did We Like It?
This table saw is equipped with a 110V motor, which delivers impeccable speed and quality. The speeds are adjustable between 0-10,000 RPM and make for easy and time-efficient operations.
The variable cutting speed makes this saw perfect for cutting large pieces. It also has an adjustable angle ruler, which provides precise maneuvering ability. Add to that the multifunctional design, and you’ve got a bargain at the price.
We were impressed to find that the blade comes with a blade guard that helps to stop dust from getting into the eyes. Plus, the compact yet efficient design of the machine allows you to take it anywhere for portable operation.
Did we forget to mention that it comes with a pair of 4-¼ inch buffing wheels? What’s more, the device can accommodate wheels up to 6 inches in diameter. Also, the threaded mandrels allow easy replacement of the buffing wheels as and when required.
What Could’ve Been Better?
Although this is a rather well-made machine, it doesn’t come with explicit usage instructions. This means we had to adopt a trial-and-error method to make sure we got a good handle on it. Such an approach may not be suitable for all users.
- Variable cutting speeds
- Nifty ruler for angle changes
- Wide range applicability
- Large bench-top allows ease-of-operation
- Doesn’t come with clear instructions
Best Lapidary Saw Comparison Table
| Product | Dimensions | Weight | Power Source | Voltage | Speed | Motor Power | Blade Size | Blade Material |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Hi-Tech Diamond Lapidary Trim Saw | 18″ x 10″ x 17″ | 15lbs | AC | 115V | 800 to 3,400RPM | 1/4HP | 6″ | High-Speed Steel |
| Hi-Tech Diamond Lapidary Slab Saw | 20″ x 14″ x 19″ | 35lbs | AC | 115V | 1,725RPM | 1/3HP | 10″ | High-Speed Steel |
| SKIL 3540-02 | 17.32″ x 15.16″ x 7.52″ | 18lbs | Corded Electric | 120V | 3,600RPM | N/A | 7″ | Stainless Steel |
| Hi-Tech Diamond Lapidary Trim Saw | 13″ x 10″ x 7″ | 9lbs | AC | 115V | 800 to 3,400RPM | 1/4HP | 4″ & 5″ | High-Speed Steel |
| Mini Table Jewelry Saw | 10.43″ x 8.66″ x 5.51″ | 13.57lbs | AC | 110V | 0 to 10,000RPM | N/A | 5.9″ | N/A |
Buying Guide For The Best Lapidary Saw
Whether you’re a professional or a DIY-er, when buying a lapidary saw you’d want to invest in a good one. After all, this is going to be a significant investment, so why not get the best bang for your buck?
With so many different options to consider, the trouble is how you can settle on the best saw for your needs. After all, every job has different requirements, and you’d surely want a device that can serve you well under all circumstances.
To ensure that you face no problem making the right choice, we’ve compiled this buyer’s guide with a list of all the factors that influence the choice of a lapidary saw. With these factors in mind, you’ll be able to settle on the right option.
Let’s take a look.
Size Of The Saw
The first thing that one has to keep in mind when buying a lapidary saw is the size of the device. As you might have noticed from our list, the weights and sizes of lapidary saws vary greatly, and it’s very important to understand which one will be suitable for you.
In general, the larger the stone size that you’re looking to work with, the larger the size of the lapidary saw you’ll need. The size of the saw also depends on your work area, and whether you’ll be using the saw on a tabletop or a sawhorse.
Weight Of The Device
The weight of the device must also play a role in your selection. If you don’t need to move the saw often and are going to use it in a fixed place, then a heavyweight saw would do. However, for those looking for extra portability, we suggest going for a lightweight model.
Blade Dimensions
Next, you need to consider the dimensions of the saw blade. For cutting small gemstones and fine lapidary work, you’ll need a thin blade that can make intricate cuts. Tile cutting and shaping can be done with thicker blades, however.
Quality Of Construction
This, of course, goes without saying. When you’re buying a lapidary saw, make sure you choose one constructed from durable material, such as stainless steel. Also, it’s best if you go for powder-coated bodies, as this will help prevent rust and corrosion.
Motor Speeds
When it comes to lapidary saw motor speeds, faster isn’t always better. In fact, at slower speeds, you’ll have greater control and more torque while cutting. This will allow you to handle denser materials easily. It’s best that you choose one with a variable motor speed that can be adjusted according to your requirements.
Conclusion
Now you know all about the five best lapidary saws, and we’re sure you’re all set to go out and get the one that’s best. Before we leave, however, we’ll take time out to share our recommendations with you.
The overall best option is the Hi-Tech Diamond 6-inch Lapidary Trim Saw, which is a very versatile model. In case you’re looking for a bigger option, you can go with the 10-inch variant from the same manufacturer. And if you’re looking for something extremely affordable, nothing beats the SKIL 3540-02 7-Inch Wet Tile Saw.
And with that, we’ll take your leave. Till next time!
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