Engraving commonly refers to the decoration of the surface of a gemstone by the excavation (scratching out) of lines, or holes, or trenches with a sharp instrument, known as a graver or Turin. Of all engraved objects, cameos and intaglios are the most popular. A cameo is a design (often a human profile) in flat relief, around which the background has been cut away.
In an intaglio, it is the subject, not the background, which is cut away, creating a negative image that may be used as a seal in clay or wax. Intaglios were particularly popular with the Ancient Greeks and Romans, and are still prized by collectors.
Engraved gemstones gained prominence in Europe in the Renaissance period. During the Elizabethan period in Britain, cameo portraits were often given as gifts, particularly among the nobility. All through the ages, layered stones have been used for cameos or intaglios, with onyx and sardonyx particularly popular. Other gems suitable for engraving include rock crystal, citrine, amethyst, period, beryl, lapis lazuli, garnet, and hematite.
Organic materials like jets and ivory are also engraved to a beautiful effect.
Bead
Spherical gems such as pearls may be pierced and threaded as beads and necklaces.
Cabochon
A simple cabochon cut is used to display colors and optical effects in opaque and translucent stones.
Polished Stone
Decorative stones are given a flat, polished surface that may be used in ornaments and jewelry.
Gold Engraving
The surface of gold and other precious metals used in jewelry may be decorated with intricate patterns, using a hand-held chisel called a graver.
Crystals Directory
A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z
A
B
C
D
E
F
G
H
I
J
K
L
M
N
O
P
Q
R
S
T
U
W
Y
Z
Birthstone
January
February
March
April
May
June
July
August
September
October
November
December
