
Machine polishing uses rotary tumblers, cloth wheels, or magnetic finishers with polishing compound. It suits simple rings and necklaces in batches of 500+. Cost: 0.3-0.8 RMB per piece.
Pros: Consistent, low cost, high throughput.
Cons: Cannot reach crevices, residual casting dust in details, average mirror finish.
Hand polishing uses files, sandpaper grits, and cloth wheels by experienced artisans. Starts with rough sanding, progresses to fine grit, then mirror finish with rouge. Takes 15-40 minutes per piece, cost 5-15 RMB/piece.
Pros: Reaches every detail and stone setting edge, excellent mirror finish, visibly premium feel.
Cons: High labor cost, depends on artisan skill, limited output.
| Positioning | Method | Cost Delta |
|---|---|---|
| Fast fashion, volume | Machine | Base |
| Mid-range, detailed | Machine + touch-up | +$0.3-0.5/pc |
| High-end, stone-set | Full hand polish | +$0.8-1.5/pc |
Polishing determines the first impression. Contact us for polishing samples.