How to Drill a Hole in a Jewelry Cabochon

Cabochons are made in many different shapes and colors.

A cabochon, or cab, is a gemstone that has been cut into a dome shape and polished -- not faceted. They are commonly sold by jewelers as a part of necklaces, bracelets and earrings. Since they are used in so many different types of jewelry, cabochons usually do not come pre-drilled. Drilling a hole in a cabochon is a little tricky as a lot of friction is created when you drill into stone.

Things You'll Need

• Drill
• Drill bit for drilling stone
• Safety glasses
• Bowl
• Fine tip marker

Instructions

1. Fill a bowl with cool water.

2. Mark the spot on the cabochon that you wish to drill with a marker. A hole is most commonly placed in what will be the top of the cabochon.

3. Put the correct drill bit on the drill. A specialty drill bit, such as a diamond drill bit, is necessary to ensure that the bit or stone doesn't break when drilling.

4. Hold the cabochon under the water and begin drilling. Pull the drill bit out every so often to rinse the not-yet-formed hole and give the stone and bit a rest.

5. Rinse the cabochon under cool water when you are finished drilling the hole.

Tips & Warnings

• The Dremel Rotary Tool is a smaller-size drill that is used for drilling cabochons.

• A hand drill may also be used, but will not be as steady as a drill that has a stand.

• When drilling through stone, the drill bit and stone may get extremely hot. The cool water moderates their temperature.

• Do not get any of the motorized part of the drill wet in order to avoid shock and damage to the drill.

References

• One Source Jewlery Supply: How To Drill A Hole In A Cabochon

Resources

• Cabbers.com: What is a Cabochon?