“Crystal cut gemstones” refers to gems that have been precisely cut and polished with multiple facets to maximize their brilliance and light reflection. This differs from a simple polished stone (cabochon) or a raw, uncut stone.
Types of Crystal Cuts
The cutting style (brilliant, step, or mixed) determines how a gemstone reflects light. The shape can be combined with almost any cutting style to achieve different effects.
Brilliant Cut: Features triangular and kite-shaped facets arranged to maximize sparkle and fire.
Examples: Round Brilliant, Oval, Pear (teardrop shape), Marquise (navette shape), and Heart cuts.
Step Cut: Characterized by rectangular facets that ascend the crown and descend the pavilion in parallel steps, known for displaying a stone’s clarity and color.
Examples: Emerald cut (rectangular shape), Asscher cut (square shape with beveled corners), and Baguette cuts.
Mixed Cuts: Combine aspects of both brilliant and step cuts (e.g., brilliant facets on the crown, step facets on the pavilion) to balance color, clarity, and brilliance.
Examples: Princess cut (square or rectangular modified brilliant cut), Radiant cut (rectangular with cut corners and brilliant facets).
Rose Cut: An antique style with a flat base and a faceted, domed top.