These are the tops I am working on . Use clear acrylic an it darkened too much. The jewel is a Swarovski crystal. 

Gerald can you use an air brush. Since you are using acrylic, regular kids water colors can be used. That way a little at a time can keep from getting too dark too quick. I use 10 to 30 lbs of air with the air brush.

  I like what you are doing!

I like those Gerald.  I have an idea to put some steel balls in the end of some for the top to spin on.  I figure they will spin longer.  Cut some ball bearings apart I had lying around the metal shop that I brought home from work years ago.  Just need to get to them is all.

Looking good Gerald. It surprises me that a clear acrylic darkened them. That's usually water clear.

 

Steve

Nice! Bet those jewels sparkle when the sun hits them!

I like the tops Gerald !!!

Very nice!

Thanks for the comments . I am thinking that the problem is the BP was almost dry and darkened so the acrylic on end grain darkened the color of the wood. But as you can see in the three on the right it also darkened the marker. May try just a seal coat of blonde shellac

1 hour ago, Gerald said:

Thanks for the comments . I am thinking that the problem is the BP was almost dry and darkened so the acrylic on end grain darkened the color of the wood. But as you can see in the three on the right it also darkened the marker. May try just a seal coat of blonde shellac

 

I like using seal coat on small end grain items.  With enough practice I can put multiple coats on in minutes while it is still spinning on the lathe and end up with a decent shine.