How to Drill a Fine Size Hole Into a Gemstone

Select the drill bit size you want. When drilling into rock, you need to use diamond drill bits to create the hole. Standard metal drill bits may crack the gemstone. Although the bits for stones are made from diamonds, the drill bits do not last nearly as long as standard drill bits, so if you are drilling many gemstones, buy them in bulk, if possible, to save money.

Put the drill bit into the drill and tighten it using the chuck found on the drill.

Place the gem in a tub of water or ask someone to spray the area where you will be drilling the hole in the stone continuously while you drill the hole. The water cools the bit, helping it last longer.

Put on goggles and a dust mask to prevent any rock dust or chips from getting into your eyes and any dust from entering your lungs.

Hold or anchor the stone and slowly lower the drill bit into the surface of the stone. If you do not have a drill press and the gem is small, consider wrapping the gemstone in a soft cloth and inserting it into a vise, tightening it just enough to hold the gem securely, and folding the excess fabric at the top surface of the gem away from the stone. Ask someone to drip or spray water as you drill. As you drill into the gemstone, use an in and out motion to introduce water beneath the bit, which flushes away the rock residue. If you are using a handheld drill, be sure you are keeping the drill perpendicular to the stone. Drilling at an angle may fracture the gemstone.