Polishing and buffing overlap in jewelry finishing. For a jewelry set, the practical distinction is often between cutting to refine the surface and coloring to develop its final luster.
An earlier cutting stage uses abrasive action to address surface marks. A later coloring or brightening stage refines the luster with a finer finishing combination.
A flexible buff or wheel carries a compound. Depending on that combination, it can perform cutting or final brightening.
Buffing can therefore involve abrasion and material removal. The equipment, compound and stage of work affect the result.
Polishing can name the whole finishing sequence or a particular stage of surface refinement.
For a necklace design, wheel and compound selection depend on material, condition, shape and desired finish.
Foredom’s buffing and polishing guide groups tools and compounds by cutting and coloring tasks.
Have the piece assessed before surface work, and discuss which marks or texture to address and the shine you prefer.