Lapidarists

Part of speech: noun

Definitions

1. A craftsperson skilled in cutting and polishing precious stones for use in jewelry or decorative items
2. An artisan specializing in the meticulous shaping and finishing of gemstones, enhancing their visual appeal and market value
3. A professional who works with gemstones, employing tools and techniques to refine their surfaces and bring out their beauty

Etymology: "Lapidarists" is simply the plural of "lapidarist," a person who cuts, polishes or engraves gemstones. The noun it belongs to is built from "lapidary," which itself comes from Latin "lapidarius," meaning "of stones" or "pertaining to stones," formed from "lapis," the Latin word for stone. The same Latin root gives English words such as "lapidate," to pelt with stones, and "lapidify," to turn into stone.