Raw stones, chunks, and crystal points – what you get and what you can create

Raw stones are stones that have not been cut into beads or cabochons. They are sold as chunks, points, slices, or geodes, and they have neither holes nor a uniform shape. This makes them both cheaper per gram and more challenging to work with – in return, you get a unique piece where no two are ever alike.

How to work with raw stones

Each Piece is Unique: Raw stones are sorted into size ranges – shape, colour saturation, and crystal points vary naturally.

View the Stones in Store: Nybrovej 83, 2820 Gentofte. Stones often need to be seen by hand – stop by and choose for yourself.

1-2 Day Delivery: In-stock items are typically packed the same day. Shipping 39 kr. in Denmark – free over 399 kr.

Three ways to add a raw stone to a chain

For all three methods, silver, gold-plated, or steel wire holds its shape better than soft copper wire if the jewellery is to be worn and not just displayed.

  • Wire wrapping: wire is wrapped around the stone to form both bezel and bail. Requires only wire and flat-nose pliers.
  • Glue setting: a setting or bail is glued on with jewellery adhesive – quickest, but requires a flat surface.
  • Claw or prong setting: metal prongs are bent around the stone. Best for flat slices and cabochons.

Size and weight vary

Raw stones are typically sold per piece or per weight range because nature does not produce uniform chunks. If a size range is stated for an item, it covers the range within the batch we currently have in stock – therefore, you cannot expect to receive a specific shape or exact weight.

If you need several identical items for a series, drilled beads or cabochons are a more reliable choice than raw chunks.

Cleaning and handling

Raw stones are dustier than polished stones because their surface is unworked. Rinse them briefly in cool water and let them dry completely. Avoid soaking porous stones, and keep stones like selenite and turquoise away from prolonged water exposure.

Crystal points may have sharp edges and small chips from mining – this is a natural part of the material and not a defect.

For decoration and retail

Raw stones are also sold for decoration, gifts, and to shops that wish to offer a bowl of single stones at the till. Our bulk discount also applies here: the discount automatically increases in your basket from 5% up to 20% for 50 pieces or more of the same item.

FAQ

Do raw stones have holes?

No. Raw stones are unworked and have neither holes nor uniform shapes. If you want to put them on a chain, they need to be wire-wrapped, glued to a bail, or mounted in a setting.

Will I receive the exact stone shown in the picture?

No, unless otherwise stated on the product. Raw stones are sold from batches, and shape, size, and colour saturation naturally vary from piece to piece.

Can I drill raw stones myself?

It requires diamond drill bits and water cooling, and hard stones like quartz can easily crack without the right equipment. For most projects, it's easier to wire-wrap the stone or buy a pre-drilled version.

Do you sell raw stones in larger quantities?

Yes. The bulk discount also applies to raw stones, and we can offer quotes for larger quantities – email service@tomato.eu with the stone type, size, and quantity.