Let's not get the crystal in stemware and chandeliers confused with quartz crystal. The former is a special formula of leaded glass that has a high index of refraction and is a man-made material, not a natural mineral. The physical properties of quartz, combined with its relatively great abundance when compared to many other gem materials, allow it to be one of the most used raw gem minerals. Quartz is cut into beads and spheres, carved into many types of objects, from animals to abstract objects d'art. It is faceted into beads and variously shaped individual stones.
Carving can be simple or very ornate.
Another carving style produces cameos. Carving methods involve some type of abrasive powder, nowadays most often diamond imbedded in carving bits. Simple domed cabochons are often cut and applied as protective capping material for soft gemstones. History of lapidary use Some examples of the use of quartz by lapidaries will illustrate how early man actually learned and perfected the lapidary trades. Although dating back to early Grecian times, the utilitarian use of carved rock crystal really became popular with the Romans.