If you have a choice do you prefer to work with polished crystals or raw rough unpolished? I find it depends on the crystal. I love the feel and energy of the rough.
I have a collection of both I do love the raw energy of the rough crystals but it does very much depend on the work you are doing so I'm very much a both.
I like the tumbled stones for making medicine pouchs, just because they are small. But I love big natural crystals for putting on my altar. They sure put out the power.
I have both, I like the rough ones if I'm making a pendulum, it holds the silver wire better, but to carry I like the smooth ones. I got tons from when Mr. V and I went gem hunting in NC. that was so much fun, we bought a tumbler and tumbled quiet a few, and left some rough. So either or is good for me.