Glossary · Gemstone Cuts
Cabochon
A cabochon is a gem polished into a smooth, rounded dome rather than faceted — the classic treatment for opal, turquoise, garnet and star stones.
What is a cabochon?
A cabochon is cut as a smooth, polished dome with a flat base and no facets. It is the traditional choice for opaque or translucent stones such as turquoise, opal, coral and garnet, and for stones showing a star or cat's-eye.
History & why it matters
Cabochon cutting predates faceting by centuries and was widely used in Georgian and Victorian jewellery, including cabochon garnet 'carbuncles'.
What affects value
Colour, dome quality and a clean surface matter most. For star stones, a sharp, centred star raises value. Browse antique gemstone jewellery.
Cabochon Gemstone Jewellery
Browse antique cabochon gemstone jewellery, or sell a piece.
FAQs
A cabochon is a gemstone polished into a smooth, rounded dome with a flat base, rather than being faceted. It is used especially for opaque stones and those showing star or cat's-eye effects.
Opal, turquoise, coral, garnet, moonstone, star sapphire and star ruby are commonly cut as cabochons, as are many opaque or translucent stones.
Yes. We buy and sell antique cabochon gemstone jewellery. Browse the collection or request a valuation.