Synthetic sapphires, produced by the Verneuil flame-fusion process since 1902, are used for abrasion-resistant applications such as thread guides, phonograph needles, (phonograph needles! what are phonographs the youngsters ask?) watch bearings and machinists' dies. [ 02-24-2002: Message edited by: gillyharold ]

[ 02-24-2002: Message edited by: gillyharold ]