Shape of gemstones

The cut of a gemstone refers to its shape and the arrangement of its facets. It's a crucial factor in how light interacts with the gem, influencing its brilliance, fire, and overall appearance.

Common Gemstone Cuts:

• Round Brilliant: The most popular cut, designed to maximize brilliance.
• Oval: A versatile and elegant cut often used in rings.
• Pear (Teardrop): A classic cut, often used in pendants and earrings.
• Emerald (Step) Cut: Characterized by its rectangular shape and stepped facets, emphasizing clarity.
• Cushion Cut: A popular antique cut with rounded corners, known for its soft look.
• Princess Cut: A square cut with many facets, known for its brilliance.
• Marquise (Navette): An elongated, boat-shaped cut.
• Heart Cut: A romantic and symbolic cut.
• Trillion (Triangle) Cut: A triangular cut with variations, often used as side stones.
• Cabochon: A polished, non-faceted cut, often used for opaque or translucent gems.
• Fancy Cuts: A broad category encompassing various unique and creative shapes.

While the cut significantly affects the appearance of a gemstone, it typically has a relatively minor impact on its overall value compared to factors such as color, clarity, and carat weight. However, the quality of the cut (proportions, polish, symmetry) is important and can affect value within a particular cut style.