Home » categories » rare book library » Bahadur. A Handbook Of Precious Stones.

Ch. 8: Gem Cutting

Ch. 7: Optical Properties Page of 187 Ch. 8: Gem Cutting Text size:minus plus Restore normal size   Mail page  Print this page
Chapter VIII GEM-CUTTING AND POLISHING
MOST of the gem-stones are won as waterworn and damaged or rounded pebbles, though some good crystals may also be obtained. The value and beauty of gem-stones are very much enhanced by the proper cutting of facets, because the optical properties are then brought out to the best advantage. In cutting it is always the aim to maintain the symmetry of the crystal.
The first attempts at gem-cutting were to smooth off or round off the stones and polish them by crude methods. Gems were also drilled and used as drops. The old process of cutting is still extant in the various types of cabochon cuts, which include the following: Convex cabochon, lentil cut, high cabochon, hollow or concavo-convex cabochon. They are illustrated below.
The above cabochon cuts are suitable for stones that have a sheen as the tiger's eye, a play of colours as in opal,
Ch. 7: Optical Properties Page of 187 Ch. 8: Gem Cutting
Suggested Illustrations
Other Chapters you may find useful
Other Books on this topic
bullet Tag
This Page