Scaif

Definition and Invention of Scaif

• A scaif is a polishing wheel used in the diamond cutting industry.
• It was invented in 1456 by Lodewyk van Bercken.
• The scaif is infused with a mixture of olive oil and diamond dust.
• It allows for the symmetrical polishing of diamond facets.
• This invention revolutionized the diamond cutting industry.

Structure and Function of Scaif

• The scaif consists of a hard disk parallel to the floor.
• The disk is rotated like a potter's wheel.
• A film of olive oil and diamond dust is placed on the top surface.
• A circular frame surrounds the disk to catch the spun-off oil.
• A mechanical arm hovers above the disk to hold the diamond.

Polishing Process with Scaif

• The mechanical arm is finely adjusted to position the diamond for polishing.
• As the facets are polished, more diamond dust is produced.
• The supply of diamond dust is replenished during the polishing process.
• The angles of the polished facets reflect light optimally.
• The use of scaif enhances the popularity of diamonds.

External Links

• 'The Diamond Invention. Chapter 11' by Edward Jay Epstein.
• 'Diamond cutting. Thank you, Lodewyk van Berken' by Jeffrey Blancq, April 21, 2006.
• Retrieved from https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Scaif&oldid=1181263864.

Scaif Data Sources