Crystals are available in many natural and polished forms. The terminology can be confusing when you first begin collecting, particularly when similar materials are sold as towers, points, freeforms and palm stones.

This guide explains the most common crystal shapes and how they are produced.

Crystal Towers

Towers are upright polished shapes that finish in a point.

Most commercial towers are cut from larger blocks of mineral material. Their pointed tops do not necessarily represent the crystal’s natural growth.

Towers are popular because they:

• Display patterns vertically
• Require relatively little shelf space
• Work well in grouped displays
• Can be cut from many different minerals

Natural Crystal Points

A natural point forms as the crystal grows. Its faces and termination are determined by the mineral’s crystal structure.

Natural points may display:

• Growth lines
• Contact marks
• Multiple terminations
• Inclusions
• Uneven or partially formed faces

Some natural points are polished lightly, so check the product description if retaining a completely natural surface is important to you.

Spheres

Spheres are cut and polished into a round shape.

They are popular for minerals with:

• Colour zoning
• Bands
• Inclusions
• Flash
• Optical effects
• Landscape-like patterns

Spheres should always be displayed on a secure stand because they can roll and cause damage or injury.

Freeforms

A freeform is polished while retaining an irregular, organic outline.

The cutter may follow the natural shape of the rough material or position the face to highlight a particular pattern. Freeforms are especially popular for labradorite, agate, jasper and mineral specimens with distinctive inclusions.

Palm Stones

Palm stones are smooth, compact pieces with rounded edges. They are normally oval or irregularly shaped and designed to sit comfortably in the hand.

They are also easy to store and suitable for collectors with limited display space.

Hearts

Crystal hearts are cut and polished into a symmetrical decorative shape. They can be produced from most solid mineral materials.

The quality of a heart depends on:

• Symmetry
• Polish
• Material quality
• Pattern placement
• Condition of the edges

Clusters

Clusters consist of multiple natural crystals growing together.

They may contain one mineral or several associated minerals. Clusters can be delicate because individual points may be exposed, so they require careful handling.

Geodes

A geode is a rock containing a cavity lined with crystals or mineral deposits.

Geodes can be:

• Displayed whole
• Cut into matching halves
• Opened to reveal the interior
• Shaped into large cathedral pieces
• Polished around the edges

Not every crystal-lined cavity is technically a geode, although the term is often used broadly in retail.

Flames

Flames are polished shapes with curved, twisting points. They are entirely created through cutting and polishing rather than representing a natural crystal formation.

They are often used to showcase patterned materials such as jasper, agate and labradorite.

Bowls and Dishes

Crystal bowls are carved from solid pieces of mineral material. They require a relatively thick and stable piece of rough stone.

Some minerals are water-sensitive or soft, so crystal bowls should generally be treated as decorative objects rather than food-safe containers.

Carvings

Carvings include animals, skulls, moons, figures and other decorative designs.

Their prices can be influenced by:

• Material
• Size
• Detail
• Symmetry
• Finish
• Difficulty of carving
• Skill of the lapidary artist

Frequently Asked Questions

Are crystal towers naturally shaped?

Most polished towers are cut by people. Natural crystal points form according to the mineral’s crystal structure.

Are crystal spheres naturally round?

No. They are shaped using lapidary equipment.

Does carving make a crystal fake?

No. Genuine mineral material remains genuine after carving, although it should still be identified accurately.

Which shape displays flash best?

Freeforms, spheres and palm stones can display flash well because the material can be cut at an angle that reveals its optical effect.

Final Thoughts

Crystal shape and mineral identity are separate things. Quartz, fluorite, labradorite and many other materials can be cut into the same shape while remaining completely different minerals.

Understanding how each shape is produced will help you distinguish naturally formed crystals from carved and polished pieces.