Read and review the design instructions for the gem you are cutting. The instructions outline the exact index, angle and depth of the cut that needs to be made on the gem.
Look at the gem for cracks or flaws in its surface before making any incisions. This will avoid ricochets that may crack the gem and ruin the design.
Perform a coarse cut first so that you remove excess debris from the exterior of the gem. Use higher lap speeds to do this, as recommended by the Gem Society. This ensures that you cut through firmly.
Set the angle of your protractor to the angle stated on your instructions and cut the main facets next. Each device varies depending on the manufacturer. Read the equipment's guidelines so that you do this properly. This is key to avoid cutting the gem at the wrong angle, consequently ruining the design.
Change the index gear by loosening the pin, rotating the gear and then affixing the pin again. This moves the angle of tilt of the gem by rotating it, so it is set correctly. According to the Gem Society, 64 and 96 are the most widely used index gears. Refer to your instructions to get your index number.
Use a cheater to make small changes to the angle of tilt so that the gem lies flat on the surface before cutting. This is a useful technique to ensure it is steady and secure before cutting it. Move the gem sideways slightly to achieve this.
Lubricate the laps on the cutting machine with water so that its movements are constant. This avoids stalling or juddering of the machine to give a smooth cut. Top up the water tank of the machine to employ this technique.
Remove the gem from the dop stick, wash it and wash your hands. Now that the cutting has been completed, you want to ensure it is polished without contamination from gem dust that may scrape the surface. Put it back onto the dop stick once you have done this.
Change the lap disk's surface to add a polish cloth. Polish the stone by choosing a slow lap speed. It is important to avoid damaging the surface of the gem while you finish it, so using a slow speed gives you greater control and precision.