Hardstone carving is a general term in art history and archaeology for the carving for artistic purposes of semi-precious stones, also known as gemstones, such as jade, rock crystal (clear quartz), agate, onyx, jasper, serpentine or carnelian, and for an object made in this way. Normally the objects are small, and the category overlaps with both jewellery and sculpture. Sometimes the Italian term pietre dure is used; this is not to be confused with the sub-group of pietra dura. From the Neolithic period until about the 19th century such objects were among the most highly prized in a wide variety of cultures, often attributed special powers or religious significance, but today coverage in non-specialist art history tends to be relegated to a catch-all decorative arts or "minor arts" category. The types of objects carved have included those with ritual or religious purposes, engraved gems as signet rings and other kinds of seal, handles, belt hooks and similar items, vessels and purely decorative objects.

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