Cut & Polished Gemstones

Clover85

What are peoples thoughts on stones that are cut and polished? Do you prefer them to raw, or are raw best for collectors?

NeonLights

I think they're ok, I usually buy based on aesthetics, so if a smooth glossy appearance suits the mineral I will go for that over a raw form.

Timbo77

I have a mix of different forms, but if its something I want to handle a lot I go for polished pieces like tumble

KayleighCurtis

I think it depends on the specific crystal... as an example Okenite presents itself very well as a geode, but the fine crystals would mean it'd lose all identity if it was tumbled. I'm not adverse to polished gems, but I think each has it's own place or ideal presentation.

MichaelCarter79

I prefer raw specimens, but see nothing wrong with people buying tumble. Although it is arguably a little wasteful as some raw material is lost in the process, but it's not usually good grades that are used.