How is a buff stick different from a polishing cloth?

A polishing cloth is used at the final stage to bring up a shine on already-smooth metal. A buff stick carries abrasive paper and is used earlier in the process to remove tool marks and scratches before polishing begins.

What grits of emery paper are used on a buff stick?

Jewellers typically work from coarser grits, around 240 or 320, to remove deeper marks, then progress to finer grits like 400 to 600 before moving to polishing compounds. The exact sequence depends on how much material needs to be removed.

Can a buff stick be used on gemstones?

It can be used on some softer stones with care, but most gem polishing is done on a lap or wheel rather than by hand. The stick is most useful for smoothing metal around stone settings.

What is a buff stick in jewellery making?

By Jared James · Last updated 21 May 2026

Definition

A buff stick is a small hand tool used in jewellery making and finishing, consisting of a flat, half-round or square wooden or plastic stick wrapped with sandpaper or emery paper. Jewellers use it to smooth curved and recessed surfaces before final polishing, working through progressively finer grits to remove file marks, scratches or surface irregularities. The stick format allows better control in tight areas and curved profiles than a flat sheet, and it bridges the gap between coarser filing and the polishing stage on the bench.

Frequently asked questions

How is a buff stick different from a polishing cloth?: A polishing cloth is used at the final stage to bring up a shine on already-smooth metal. A buff stick carries abrasive paper and is used earlier in the process to remove tool marks and scratches before polishing begins.
What grits of emery paper are used on a buff stick?: Jewellers typically work from coarser grits, around 240 or 320, to remove deeper marks, then progress to finer grits like 400 to 600 before moving to polishing compounds. The exact sequence depends on how much material needs to be removed.
Can a buff stick be used on gemstones?: It can be used on some softer stones with care, but most gem polishing is done on a lap or wheel rather than by hand. The stick is most useful for smoothing metal around stone settings.

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