A magnificently hand carved topaz crystal.
FINISHING OF GEMSTONES
Precious metals and gems - usually massive, microcrystalline stones and organics - can be worked by polishing, carving, or engraving. Polishing is the oldest form of fashioning. Carving produces three-dimensional objects by cutting them from a larger mass of material. Engraved images are made by scratching out lines or holes, or by cutting away to leave a raised image. Carving and engraving require tools harder than the material being worked.
The most usual method of fashioning a gem is to cut the surface into a number of flat faces, known as facets. This gives the stone its final shape, or "cut". The craftsman, or lapidary, who cuts the stone aims to show its best features, taking into account its colour, clarity, and weight. He may, however, have to compromise to retain weight and therefore value.