I'm setting up a new "lapidary corner" in a classroom. But I'm a newbie to this field myself, so I could use your help.

What would be the least noisy and messy saw options, both slabbing and trim? I prefer stand-alone units, not combos, and new, not used.

Power feed would be nice for the slab saw. The "gemworld.com" site says the Loretone 12" professional slabbing saw "runs cleanly enough to operate in the kitchen". Even though we will NOT be running it in the kitchen, that sounds attractive...if it is true.

I realize that this is going to be an inherently noisy activity, but I gather from some of the posts that the construction of the saw can deaden or amplify the sound somewhat.

Hello, I'm pleased to be able to join this forum! I have been tasked with setting up the lapidary portion of a jewelry school classroom. I know very little about the subject, so it is wonderful to be able to ask questions of knowledgable people.