What is burnishing in jewellery?
By Jared James · Last updated 21 May 2026
Definition
Burnishing is the process of polishing metal by pressing and rubbing a smooth, hard tool called a burnisher firmly across the surface to compress and smooth the metal at a microscopic level, bringing up a reflective shine without removing material through abrasion. Unlike polishing with compounds or papers, burnishing works by displacing and flattening the surface. Jewellers use burnishing to finish bezels and set stones by pushing the metal edge over a gem, and also to brighten recessed areas of a piece where a polishing wheel cannot reach.
Frequently asked questions
- What is a burnisher?
- A burnisher is a smooth, hardened tool usually made from hardened steel or agate, with a polished rounded or curved tip and a handle. The smooth surface slides across metal without cutting it, compressing the surface to produce a bright finish.
- What is the difference between burnishing and polishing?
- Polishing uses progressively finer abrasives to remove microscopic layers of metal until the surface is smooth. Burnishing does not remove material at all; it compresses and flattens the surface. Both produce a shine, but the technique and result are slightly different.
- When do jewellers use a burnisher?
- Burnishing is used when setting stones with a bezel or rub-over setting, where the metal edge is pushed over the stone with the burnisher. It is also used to brighten engraved or pierced areas, touch up small dull patches, and finish edges without abrasive papers.
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