# Glyptics: cameos and intaglios

> Glyptics engraves stones and shells: the cameo is carved in relief and the intaglio in recess; history and technique of a miniature art.

- Source: https://www.711grados.com/en/glyptics-cameos-and-intaglios/
- Language: en
- Note: This entry was drafted with the help of AI and is pending review by the author.
- Published: 2026-08-27
- Updated: 2026-08-27
- Translation (es): https://www.711grados.com/es/gliptica-camafeos-e-intaglios/
- Author: Sandra Sánchez
- Site: 711 Grados (https://www.711grados.com/)

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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](https://www.711grados.com/media/diagrams/gliptica-steps.en.svg "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](https://www.711grados.com/en/seals-in-jewelry/)).

## 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

- [Seals in jewelry: Mesopotamian cylinders, scarabs and intaglios](https://www.711grados.com/en/seals-in-jewelry/)
- [Cabochon cutting](https://www.711grados.com/en/cabochon-cutting/)
- [Signet rings: history, engraving and how to wear them](https://www.711grados.com/en/signet-rings/)