Carved and polished crystal is shiny and luminescent.
Manufacturer's today carve most crystal with high tech lasers and computer programs. However, the hand-carved crystal craft is still kept alive by a small number of craftsmen who use diamond-tipped tools to carve crystals and other fine gemstones.
Pointed Head
Pointed head hand tools have a long metal dowel with a point at the end. The point is diamond tipped so that it will cut through crystal. It will not wear down as quickly as other materials, making it easier to cut a large amount of crystals quickly. Craftsmen use the pointed head tool to make deep cuts in the crystal. The tool is commonly used for cutting statues and paperweights.
Tapered Head
Tapered head tools have the same basic shape as pointed head tools, but they have a tapered edge at the end rather than a point. The edge is sharp and flat to make it easier to engrave lines in the crystal. The taper allows the craftsman to hold the tool at an angle that is generally more comfortable.
Curve Head
Curved head tools look like tapered head tools except that they have a curved end, which makes it possible to engrave curves onto letters and designs and allows the craftsman to remove chunks of the crystal while leaving a curved edge.
Round Head
The round head tool has a rounded edge that is not sharp in any way. This tool allows the craftsman to create a concave alcove in crystal and to smooth over any rough edges after created the basic design. Round head tools are also sometimes referred to as conical head tools.
Polishing Wheel
When the craftsman has made the basic cuts to create the basic shape and design, he then refines it with a polishing wheel. The polishing wheel is covered with diamond sandpaper that carefully and slowly grinds away the rough parts to make them smooth. The craftsman will also sometimes use the edge of the polishing wheel to grind details into the crystal. This polishing process delivers a bright sheen to the crystal that is sought after by consumers.
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