What Is a Cabochon?

A cabochon is a gemstone that has been shaped and polished, as opposed to faceted. The resulting form is usually a convex obverse with a flat reverse. Cabochon was the default method of preparing gemstones before gemstone cutting was developed.

Are cabochons valuable?

Cabochons are for jewelry making, but can be used in other crafts too. The shape may be symmetrical, calibrated or freeform. Some people refer to these as "semi-precious stone" cabochons, but that is a misnomer as some of these materials are rarer and more valuable than diamonds and rubies!

What is a cabochon used for?

Cabochons make beautiful focal points for jewelry. They're typically used to make pendants and rings. These stones don't usually have holes, though.