Tumbled or Natural? Polished or Rough? Which is Better?
Whether or not a rough or polished crystal is “better” depends on what you intend to use it for and your own personal preferences. Both rough and polished crystals have their own unique qualities and benefits. However, there are some types better suited to polishing and some that are more beautiful in their rough, natural state, such as clusters.Rough crystals, also known as natural or raw crystals, are often valued for their natural beauty and energetic properties. They are typically unprocessed and unpolished, with a natural, earthy appearance that can range from opaque to translucent. Virtually all rough crystals that are available for sale have at a minimum been cleaned with water, pressure or various solutions to remove sand, impacted mud or extra matrix stone. And many rough crystal specimens have been “downsized” from their natural “found in the earth” formation as many are too large to move or be used. In addition clusters or may have already been broken or cracked during discovery and mining activity. There are always exceptions, but it is very common practice to downsize large finds.
Polished crystals, on the other hand, have been intentionally processed and shaped to enhance their appearance and make them more aesthetically pleasing. They are often smooth, shiny, and polished to a high gloss, which can make their colors and patterns more vibrant and striking. Polished crystals are popular for use in energetic crystal healing, laying on the body, jewelry, home decor, and as gifts. Most natural crystals are too rough and sharp to be safely handled so polishing makes them more usable and accessible.There is industry wide agreement among professionals, that the energetic or metaphysical energy of a crystal, stone or mineral is intrinsic to itself and remains unchanged by processing, cutting, polishing or treatments. There are many different opinions on this among the general public and some crystal commentators, however, these are subjective personal viewpoints. Many commentators have a personal agenda to vent and there you may see quite vehement arguments that are likely to cause confusion. However, it really is up to the individual customer to determine how the energy of a crystal impacts them and what their personal preferences are. We suggest that you evaluate each crystal with an open mind and see how it impacts your energy field regardless of its treatment.
Ultimately, whether a rough or polished crystal is “better” depends on your personal preferences and what you want to use the crystal for. If you are drawn to the natural beauty and energetic properties of rough crystals, then a rough crystal may be the better choice for you. If you prefer a more polished, refined look, or want to use the crystal for jewelry or decorative purposes, then a polished crystal may be more suitable.How Stones are Tumbled
Stones can be tumbled naturally in the environment, through processes such as erosion and weathering caused by wind, water, and other natural forces. This can result in smooth and rounded stones over long periods of time. The same thing happens in a rock tumbler machine where abrasive grit and water will yield a smooth stone in a matter of weeks by mimicking nature’s own actions. Tumbled stones are aesthetically beautiful as the process reveals their natural pattern and color more vividly. And the smooth texture makes them easier and safer to use or handle.
How Crystals are Cut and Polished
There are various types of grinding and polishing machines that can also smooth out the rough texture of natural crystals and shape them into spheres, towers or carvings. This type of lapidary is an artistic endeavor that takes real expertise to make a beautiful product. Some types of crystals such as quartz, agates, feldspars and jaspers are particularly well suited to cutting and polishing to bring out their natural beauty or inclusions that reflect rainbow light. Spheres are particularly difficult to make and take skilled trade experience, specialized equipment and a larger amount of material to make. Thus spheres are usually more expensive per gram weight.
The Case of Diamonds - the journey from rough to gemstone
A natural diamond in its rough, uncut state looks quite different from the polished, faceted gemstones that most people are familiar with. A rough diamond typically appears as a translucent or opaque, irregularly shaped crystal with a rough surface texture. The surface of a rough diamond may be covered in a layer of crusty or sandy material known as "diamond skin," which is formed by exposure to high temperatures and pressure deep within the Earth's mantle.
The color of a rough diamond can vary widely, from completely colorless to shades of yellow, brown, gray, or even pink or blue. Some rough diamonds may also contain inclusions or other imperfections, such as small cracks or mineral inclusions, which can affect their value and desirability for use in jewelry.
Despite their initial appearance, rough diamonds are highly prized by diamond cutters and gemologists for their potential to yield high-quality, beautiful polished diamonds. The cutting and polishing process can transform a rough diamond into a brilliantly sparkling gemstone with stunning fire and brilliance and thus much higher value. It is instructive to see diamond in its rough natural state and then compare it to its cut and polished final product.
Why some crystals are better left natural
Larger stones and some types of minerals do not take to polishing or tumbling so they are left "rough" or natural. For example, some variations of Azurite which grow in clumps or rosettes are appreciated in their natural shape and texture and are too fragile to withstand polishing. There are many types of calcites and quartz clusters that are stunning in their natural formations and do not need any treatment other than cleaning to be saleable. Another example is Grape Agate a type of Chalcedony which forms in grape type clusters that are unique and give the crystal its real value. There are some Grape Agate specimens that can be partially polished to give them a flat base or slightly modify their appearance. Treating or polishing crystals makes no difference in their metaphysical energy or effect. Any process used to enhance the appearance of a crystal is like window dressing, it does not change its essential nature and could even enhance its value.
Final thoughts
In most cases, personal needs, preference, availability and budget will indicate what type of crystal is best for you. Most people collect a variety of each. Especially when you are starting out as a collector, keep an open mind and take time to explore all options before making a decision. Enjoy your stones, polished or rough.
