https://www.lrb.co.uk/the-paper/v46/n01/lloyd-de-beer/at-the-cluny Created Fri, 15/12/2023 - 00:00 Updated Fri, 15/12/2023 - 00:00 Rock crystal’s status stemmed from its rarity and its extraordinary beauty, made even more glorious through carving and polishing. But above all it was the stone’s unparalleled clarity that provoked wonder in those who beheld it.