Hobbyists like Joseph F. Lizzadro, Sr. found lapidary to be relaxing yet exciting because each stone is unique. Lapidary clubs were formed around the country and many still exist today. Perhaps June Culp Zeitner sums up the meaning of lapidary art best in the preface to her book Gem and Lapidary Materials for Cutters, Collectors, and Jewelers:
“Lapidary as an art is ageless, classless, and without national boundaries. It is unique in many ways. It has contributed to social and religious beliefs and to customs, rites, superstitions, and trade. Furthermore, the expert lapidary does not necessarily have a college degree, is not necessarily a professional cutter, and might even be self-taught. He does not have to use state-of-the-art machines.“