Wednesday, November 7, 2012

The Timeless Attraction Of Gemstone Cabochons

By Tameka Ware


Gemstone cabochons are sought after by many different people. They are valuable to jewelers as they are available in so many different colors, shapes and sizes. This makes them a versatile choice in constructing unique pieces of jewelery and they are suited to modern designs. They are also desired by those who believe they have strong powers, including healing. Then there are those who admire their beauty and buy them to add to their collections.

A cabochon is one of the most basic cuts for stones which involves shaping them and polishing them instead of faceting. This type of cut is most suited to opaque stones like an opal. Translucent stones like diamonds tend to need facets to create sparkle. The tops of cabochons are convex and the bottoms are left flat to allow for setting.

A cabochon is made by first cutting a rough slab from the raw material. A shape is chosen and is stenciled onto the rock. It is then trimmed with a saw. In order to facilitate the shaping and polishing, it is stuck onto a stick with wax. A grinding wheel is also used, with progressively finer grits to produce the required shape. Once it is shaped and polished, it is removed from the stick.

The shapes of these gemstones can vary considerably. A teardrop shape is popular as is a round or oval. Today they can be cut into more exotic shapes and even carved or sculpted by hand as unique pieces by talented artists. The shape is often chosen to enhance a particular feature of the stone.

The sizes of these stones varies considerably. Some are small enough to use for earrings or rings. Others are quite large in size and can be used for pendants or brooches.

The color of these gemstones is one of their biggest attractions. People are drawn to certain colors for many different reasons. There are those who simply choose a color because it goes well with a particular outfit. Others are convinced that certain colors have a specific effect on the wearer. Green helps with harmony and balance, red gives energy, violet helps you to tune in spiritually and blue promotes learning.

Gemstones have been credited with powers since ancient times. Kings wore rubies to protect them and preserve their health. The protective covering of the Jewish High Priest was designed in gemstones. The ancient Egyptians used them as lucky charms and they are referred to in legends. They were thought to bring healing and this is still true today as they are used by many alternative healers.

Cabochons are used to create unique pieces of jewelery. They may be secured with a prong setting or a bezel setting may be used, which is a rim surrounding the stone. Another effective technique is wire wrapping.

The desirability of gemstone cabochons is beyond question. They are sought after by jewelers, crafters, beaders and collectors. The range of colors, sizes and shapes on the market today is a great incentive to creativity.




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