Gemstone Jamboree
Gemstones have intrigued the public for ages, and how rhe gems are cut is also of interest. There is of course no uniform method of cutting, called lapidary, as all stones differ. The earliest and easiest cut was the cabochon which formed a dome, and is used today on such stones as opals, agate, onyx, malachite, turquoise and moonstone to enhance their color and surface. Jade is normally carved when creating ornamental forms. In the 17th century the cuts were round or cushion cuts, and in the 18th century in Brazil a cut with its 58 facets led to the brilliant cut of today. If one would examine estate jewelry one can see the English Round or European cut. The American Ideal Cut, following proportions of the American Gem Society, was based on the cut originated by Marcel Tolkowsky in 1919. This was originated as a process for cutting diamonds. The Round Brilliant Cut used today differs somewhat from Tolkowsky's in that the table is larger, and the facets are cut much deeper. Among today's cuts are Pear, Oval, Marquise, Heart, Shape, Emerald, Cushion, Princess, Rose, Triangle, Trillion, Radiant, Step or Trap, and Asher (or Asscher). The Cushion and Asher cuts have recently gained in popularity . The Asher cut with its 74 facets was developed in 1902 by two brothers in Holland in the 20th century, and was adapted from the Cushion cut popular in the 19th century. It is sometimes called the "square emerald cut." The age-old briolette cut, used on heavier stones for a drop affect, is seen occasionally today. Baguettes which commonly occur in diamond jewelry are small stones of rectangular shape. The purpose of these cuts, with more continuing to be added, is of course to reveal the gemstone at its best, including the best clarity, brilliance and fire. There continues to be great advances in technology such as lasers used for cutting diamonds. The cutter of today has to have knowledge, skill, and experience. There are many steps involved including marking (determining the cleavage or grain); cleaving (splitting the stone); sawing (sawing a stone to size); girdling (rounding a stone); faceting (cutting the facets symmetrically); and brillianteering (cutting the final facets, sometimes by another cutter). Start Your Own Gemstones EBusiness! Join Our Exclusive Club To Profit From Diamonds, Rubies, Emeralds And More! No Previous Experience Needed. No Start-up Capital. Click Here! . |
