The Science and Art of Gemstone Cutting

# # The Science and Art of Gemstone Cutting: Analyzing the Shape and Reaction of Light

Gemstone Cutting or Lapidary is not only a beautiful shape of the mineral, but a science that manipulates light through the principles of refraction and reflection. Critical Angles must be calculated so that light traveling into the gem crystals reflects back to the eye of the viewer as much as possible, avoiding light leaks that can make the gem look dark or lifeless.

The cut pattern in this image can be classified according to the cross-sectional arrangement technique (Facets) and the application objectives out as follows:

# # # Pollen Square Cut Group (Brilliant Cut Group)

- * * Round Brilliant Cut (Pollen Square Sphere) * *: The highest standard of the diamond industry was devised to extract the maximum potential of light distribution by a 57 or 58 square cross-section standard, allowing for good blemish hiding and a strong spark.

- * * Princess Cut (square shape) * *: The most popular square shape, which gives a sparkle close to the sphere.

- * * Oval, Pear, and Marquise (Fancy Shape) * *: Marquise Cut is distinguished by its elongated shape, helping to make the wearer's fingers look taper longer.

- * * Trilliant Cut (Triangular Shape) * *: Slightly curved triangle, popularly used as a side gem.

# # # Step Cut Group

- * * Emerald Cut (Emerald Shape) * *: Angle Cut Out for Strength and Beauty.

- * * Asscher Cut (Usher Shape) * *: Square Shape with Depth.

- * * Baguette Cut (Baguette Shape) * *: Long Shape with Accent Luster.

# # # Mixed and Antique Uncut Group (Mixed & Vintage Cuts)

- * * Cushion Cut (Pillow Shape) * *: Classic Shape with Rounded Look.

- * * Radiant Cut (Radiant Shape) * *: Combining Square Shape with Brilliant Cut.

- * * Rose Cut (Rose Shape) * *: Old style plus characteristics.

# # # Summary in the jeweler's view

The choice of cut pattern affects the value and beauty of the gem. The uncut technician analyzes the raw mineral nodules to decide the shape that maintains the most weight without losing the beauty of refraction, so "complete proportion" is important in showing the maximum potential of the gem.

Store pawn collection by Bunchong Tientong

31 Jan 2026