Home / Jewelry Making Tips and Techniques / What Is a Cabochon
What Is a Cabochon
by Dale Armstrong
Question:

Some of my customers recently asked me what is a cabochon? I felt silly, since I've been using the term and couldn't define it. Is it always semi-precious, undrilled - or what?
Instructions
Answer:

A 'cabochon' is a highly polished convex-cut (meaning domed) gem that is not faceted. Many lapidarys are now adding bevel cuts to the tops of cabs, to add interest and sparkle to the design that some folks will call 'faceted', and some cabs are cut with flat tops, which are used in certain applications such as intarsia. Although the majority of cabs are cut from semi-precious material, cabochons are also cut from precious stones (think of a star sapphire or star ruby). Cabochons are not often drilled, but can be, depending on what use the jewelry designer needs it for.

Answer contributed by Dale "Cougar" Armstrong

Materials

Cabochon by Gemstone
Shop Now
One of a Kind Cabochon
Shop Now
Add All Items to Cart

Tools

Ultimate wire-pliers Set
G15-20
  • G15-20
  • Lesson Quantity: 1.00 pieces
  • Purchase Quantity: 1.00 each
  • Price: $99.95
  • Gold Club Price: $74.96
Add to Bag
Add All Items to Cart
  • Category: Stones
  • Technique(s): Design, General Education

Reviews

Login to post a Review
Login to be the first to review this Tip!