Scaife
A scaife is a fundamental tool in diamond cutting and polishing. It's essentially a flat rotating disc, typically made of cast iron or steel, that's used to cut and polish diamonds. Think of it like a very specialized grinding wheel. Diamond cutters use scaifes coated with diamond dust and oil to carefully shape rough diamonds into the brilliant gems we see in jewelry. The term might appear in job descriptions as "scaife operation" or "diamond polishing on scaife." It's one of the most important pieces of equipment in traditional diamond cutting facilities.
Examples in Resumes
Operated Scaife machinery to polish diamonds to precise specifications
Trained junior staff in proper Scaife techniques and maintenance
Achieved master-level precision in diamond cutting using Scaife technology
Typical job title: "Diamond Cutters"
Also try searching for:
Where to Find Diamond Cutters
Industry Associations
Job Boards
Professional Networks
Example Interview Questions
Senior Level Questions
Q: How do you handle training newer diamond cutters on scaife operation?
Expected Answer: A senior diamond cutter should explain their teaching methods, safety protocols, and how they ensure quality while training others. They should mention hands-on supervision and gradual progression from simple to complex cuts.
Q: What methods do you use to evaluate diamond quality and determine the best cutting approach?
Expected Answer: Should demonstrate comprehensive knowledge of diamond grading, ability to plan cuts to maximize value, and experience with various cutting techniques using the scaife.
Mid Level Questions
Q: How do you maintain and prepare a scaife for different types of cuts?
Expected Answer: Should explain the process of charging the scaife with diamond powder, maintaining proper speed and pressure, and adjusting techniques for different diamond sizes and cuts.
Q: What safety procedures do you follow when operating a scaife?
Expected Answer: Should describe proper protective equipment, workspace setup, and safety protocols for diamond cutting operations.
Junior Level Questions
Q: What is a scaife and how is it used in diamond cutting?
Expected Answer: Should be able to explain that a scaife is a rotating disc used for diamond cutting and polishing, and describe its basic operation and maintenance.
Q: What basic maintenance does a scaife require?
Expected Answer: Should know about regular cleaning, proper storage, and basic upkeep of the scaife surface and rotation mechanism.
Experience Level Indicators
Junior (0-2 years)
- Basic scaife operation
- Understanding of diamond grading
- Safety procedures
- Simple cutting and polishing techniques
Mid (2-5 years)
- Advanced cutting techniques
- Scaife maintenance and preparation
- Quality control procedures
- Multiple cut types mastery
Senior (5+ years)
- Master level cutting expertise
- Training and supervision
- Complex diamond evaluation
- Production efficiency optimization
Red Flags to Watch For
- Lack of knowledge about basic diamond safety
- No understanding of diamond grading
- Unable to explain scaife maintenance
- Poor attention to detail
- No experience with quality control procedures
Related Terms
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