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Knowledge
The term ‘en cabochon’ denotes gemstones with a smooth, polished dome top. Reserved for gemstones of spectacular colour or with characteristics that may be enhanced by such a shape and polish, cabochons truly bring out the best in certain gemstones and enhance the natural magic of the colours within them. Whether it is the fiery play of colour within an opal, or the deepest hues of a Burmese sapphire, a cabochon acts like a window into the stone, unleashing the full potential of its beauty.
Stone Cuts
How Did The Cabochon Come About?
Regarded as one of the oldest cuts for gemstones, the cabochon dates back to the ancient world. Before technological advances in the 13th century which allowed for the faceting of gemstones, all precious and semi-precious gemstones were polished into cabochons. In essence, the cabochon is a look into the first connection humans had with gemstones, a polish created by those in awe of what the earth had produced, developed to enhance the exquisite colours they saw.
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What is a Cabochon?
Cabochon gemstones have a polished flat underside, and the top of the gemstone is then polished into a dome. As different cuts and polishes of stones developed over the centuries, gemstones were polished ‘en cabochon’ to realise the full potential of a stone’s colour, or to display desirable inclusions within the gemstone.
Certain gemstones contain stunning optical phenomena such as asterism and chatoyancy which require a domed and polished shape in order to be seen. These are caused by needle-like inclusions within the gem, and the dome of the cabochon draws in the light to allow the inclusions to display their characteristics.
Why Choose a Cabochon?
When looking for a gemstone of spectacular colour or a gemstone with a wonderful play on light, a cabochon is certainly an excellent choice. Acting as a window into the stone, a polished cabochon captures the natural wonder of a gemstone’s hue. This polish has withstood the test of time, and can be seen in pieces from the ancient world all the way to vibrant vintage statement pieces of the twentieth century.
Explore Berganza's Collection of Cabochon Cut Rings
Cabochons at Berganza
Visit Berganza to witness these spectacular gemstones in person, in our collection of cabochon gemstones with divine hues and extraordinary plays on light. A wonder to behold, one of our specialists would be delighted to show you more, and show you the magic within this window to some of the world’s most astonishing gemstones.
French Cut
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Asscher Cut
Brilliant Cut
Step Cut
