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| Photo: 1stdibs - A cabochon cut emerald |
Cabochons are smooth, polished gemstones without facets. They are often cut with a convex (rounded and bulged), i.e. a dome with a flat bottom. A cabochon cut is the earliest known method of cutting gemstones into jewelry. Not until the 13th century were gemstones first cut into facets.
(5) Aventurescence - has a twinkling shine (pink and green aventurine) - These stones can be chiseled into hearts, ovals, other shapes, or left as free form.
Now that we'd discussed what cabochon gemstones are and I've shown you a few types, would you splurge on a cabochon? In jewelry do you like cabochon stones: a) better; b) the same as; or c) not as much as faceted cut stones? Tell us why.
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| Photo: Raf Jewels - ruby |
Nowadays transparent (light passes through) stones are usually cut faceted, whereas translucent (some light passes through) or opaque (no light passes through) gemstones are good candidates for cabochons.
Some of the reasons for cabochons include 1) enhancing a gemstone's color or texture; 2) highlighting its unique inclusions or optical effects; and 3) turning softer stones into jewelry that would fracture if cut into facets.
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| Tsavorite (a green garnet) cabochon |
Below are several more cabochon cut gemstones. Some are costly, others are less pricey depending on rarity and demand for the stones. Clearly natural gemstones are lovely at every price point. Who cares how common it is?
(3) Adularescence - has a glow when light bounces off of it (a moonstone); (4) Iridescence - changes color with moment (a white opal); and
According to Barlows Gems, the shape of a cabochon can be symmetrical, calibrated, or free form. "Symmetrical" means a cabochon is mirror imaged on both sides. "Calibrated" is a term used for rounds or ovals as they are standard sized stones measured in millimeters. "Free form" cabochons have no definite shape like the aventurine stones shown above↑.
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| Photo: Barlows Gems |
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Ah, so that is what a cabochon is! They look really pretty, and the first one is perfect for St. Patrick's Day. I suppose you did not have a parade in New York for the day? Covid has really taken its toll on so many of our usual social practices. Hope all is well, and the vaccines are rolling out.
ReplyDeleteI think writing a blog expands a writer, Trish. This year I've really taken a liking to emeralds and tried to learn all about them. But I love all gemstones, rare and common ones and just about every other beauty the earth makes like seashells and flowers. What nature produces is magnificent!
DeleteSt. Patrick's Day was very quiet again this year. No parade, perhaps 2 people drinking beers sitting at tables outside of bars. I'm all for people meeting friends for a drink, but a positive outcome of this year was not seeing people intoxicated at 3PM. Some people overdo it and it's not a pretty sight in public.
The vaccines are rolling out. People, aged 60 and older, as well as, certain professions, can get them. A few less populated states can offer shots to all residents. It's such a large undertaking that the distribution seems not fast enough, yet it is, indeed, happening!
I hope you and Mr. C have been able to get vaccinated, Trish.