GLASS-LAPIDARY-JEWELRY (Cut/Grind/Polish)


AMERITOOL 12" FLAT LAPS SHIP IN 4-6 WEEKS! SAWS; 6-8 WEEKS. COVINGTON FLAT LAPS, VIBRALAPS, ROCIPROLAPS, SANDERS, GRINDERS, AND LATHES SHIP IN 3-4 WEEKS AS OF 7/29/25. 

We carry a wide variety of glass, lapidary, and jewelry equipment - grinding wheels, lapping machines, lap sanders, flat laps, and more - from small, table-top models to large floor models. We have a unit to suit every need. Consider these questions before purchasing a flat lap, lap wheel, lapidary grinder, arbor, lathe, including lapidary saws and trim saws: How big are the pieces I’ll be working on? How much room do I have in my shop? What type of material will I be working on? Once you have answered these questions, shop for the right machine to suit your needs.

Covington Engineering manufactures high-quality, multipurpose sanding, grinding, polishing units, and saws. Available in a variety of sizes and compositions, there is something in this line for hobbyists and professionals alike. These units are excellent for deburring, shaping, cleaning, sharpening, and smoothing workpieces. We believe every coldworking shop should have a Covington! Check out the Heavy Duty Stands page after you've chosen the unit that's right for you.

    Frequently Asked Questions

    Frequently Asked Questions for Glass Lapidary Jewelry: Cut, Grind & Polish
    What is a flat lap grinder used for in glass and lapidary work?

    A flat lap grinder spins a horizontal diamond disc to grind, smooth, and polish flat surfaces on glass, cabochons, and gemstones. It is the core machine for finishing fused glass edges and putting a polished face on stone. Stepped grits take you from coarse shaping to a final shine.

    What is the difference between a lap wheel and a lapidary grinder?

    A lap wheel is a flat horizontal disc you grind down onto, ideal for flat surfaces and glass faces. A lapidary grinder usually spins vertical wheels for shaping curved cabochons. Many artists own both; the lap handles flats and the grinder handles contours.

    What grit lapidary wheels do I need to polish glass?

    Polishing runs through a grit progression: coarse around 60 to 100 for shaping, medium 220 to 360 to remove scratches, then fine 600 up to 3000 for the shine. Each step removes the previous step's marks, so do not skip grits or the haze stays.

    Can I buy a used flat lap machine for glass?

    Used flat lap machines can be a solid value, but inspect the motor, bearings, and water feed, and budget for fresh diamond discs since worn laps cut slowly. New machines include a warranty and current discs. We carry both machines and replacement laps.

    What machine grinds and polishes glass edges?

    A glass lapping or grinding machine, typically a flat lap or a glass sander with diamond discs and water, grinds and polishes edges in one setup. Choose disc size for your piece dimensions and a grit range that covers shaping through final polish.