Okay I am going to weigh in here. I have a china topper that I thought was a 3000…not it is a 300 or 320…but very aggressive. to break it in I cabbed on it for awhile and went from there to my 1200 to 14000 with an awesome polish. I feel in love with this lap as I was able to shape quick without to mush subsurface as the 1200 steel, inland lapidary topper, well worn in took the stone into the next stage quick.
Now I use the lap for shaping and first cutting,
But I have yet to here anyone mention Kingsley North lapidary supply.
They are located in Norway Michigan and offer everything the Faceter needs, at a good price. http://www.kingsleynorth.com
I just purchased their 8″ top for $25, all grits are that price. I will give you the report after I use the 80 grit ripper.