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Glyptics: cameos and intaglios

· 1 min read · Techniques

Illustration: Glyptics: cameos and intaglios

Glyptics is the art of engraving hardstones and shells. Its two classic products are the cameo (in relief) and the intaglio (in recess).

Steps of the technique: Choose the stone, Draw, Carve, Add detail, Polish, Mount
Summary of the steps

Cameo #

A scene carved in relief on a stone or shell with two layers of different color (onyx, sardonyx, shell), so the design stands out from the background.

Intaglio #

The design is carved in recess. It works as a seal: pressed into wax or clay, it comes out in relief (see seals).

Technique #

It is carved with diamond or steel points and abrasive powders, with small lathes. Today burs and lasers are also used.

History #

Greek and Roman cameos and intaglios are among the most admired, and they were reborn with force in the 19th century.

Step by step #

  1. Choose the stone. Onyx, sardonyx, shell or jasper.
  2. Draw. Mark the figure on the stone.
  3. Carve. With diamond points or burs.
  4. Add detail. Outline faces and folds.
  5. Polish. With fine powders and felt points.
  6. Mount. In a ring, pendant or brooch.

Tools and materials #

  • Small lathe or flex shaft
  • Diamond points
  • Abrasive powders
  • Loupe or microscope

Common mistakes #

  • Color layer too thin: the background is lost.
  • Rushing the carving: details break.
  • Not cooling the stone.
  • Stones with hidden fissures.

See also #

This entry was drafted with the help of AI and is pending review by the author.