Jewelers Rouge and Polishing Compounds

Buffing/Polishing Compounds and Jewelers Rouge can be used to smooth and/or shine metals, plastic, wood, and other materials. The names Buffing compound and polishing compound are used interchangeably and refer to fine abrasive fillers combined with greases which are formed into solid bars or liquid. Jewelers rouge or red rouge is the finest compound originally developed by the jewelry trade for buffing precious metals. Jewelers rouge will bring out the maximum luster and a mirror like finish. Apply polishing compound or jewelers rouge to a buffing wheel by spinning a buffing wheel on either a bench grinder or electric drill and lightly press the compound or jewelers rouge onto the wheel.

Polishing Compounds are similar to sandpaper in that they are used from coarse to fine. A work piece that is severely scratched may need to be sanded down with sandpaper before polishing. Once the scratch depth is minimal on the work piece it is advised to start with the coarsest compound that is applicable to the material being polished. From there one should than move down to the next compound and so on until the desired finish is achieved.

Note: It may not always be necessary to start with the coarsest and go all the way to the finest. This will depend on the condition of the material being polished.

Polishing compounds are available in 4 oz. and 1 lb. bars.

White rouge and Jewelers rouge are available in 1 oz., 4 oz., and 1 lb. bars.

Other Buffing and Polishing Pages

Comprehensive Polishing Directions

Basic Polishing Directions

Buffing Machine Chart

Buffing and Polishing Terminology

Buffing Wheels