Gemstone Shapes vs Gemstone Cuts

Natural gemstones from the earth are in rough form. To enhance their beauty, they are cut and finally given different shapes. The term Gemstone cuts and gemstone shapes are used interchangeably, but they are different from each other. For instance, an Asscher is a cut, whereas an Octagon is the shape. In this blog, we will discover the difference between the two and how they play an important role in identifying the gemstone value. 

Understanding Gemstone Shape

The external visual look of a gem is called its shape. It plays an important role when choosing a jewelry piece.  The common gemstone shapes are oval, round, pear, heart, rectangle, octagon, trillion, and various other fancy shapes. Here is the list of gemstone shapes:

Round Shape: The best shape of the gemstone is a round shape. The gemstone color is well highlighted with this shape. Brilliant cut is a round shape with 58 facets. It is a popular cut with a round shape perfect for gems like Ruby stone, diamond, sapphire stone, and emeralds. 

Oval Shape: The next popular shape is oval. It is different from the round shape as it has an elongated appearance. This shape displays brilliance like others. Gemstone shapes have great significance in astrology. The oval shape signifies rebirth and fertility. In Vedic astrology, oval gemstones are highly preferred. 

Also Read: What Is A Fancy Cut? Guide To Fancy Gem Cuts

For instance, one can harness maximum benefits from a Panna stone ring featuring an oval shape. The energy is well distributed in this shape, and hence, one can say that shape does matter in astrology. 

Heart Shape: A gemstone with a heart-shaped outline is a popular shape in jewelry. The heart shape signifies love and affection. The overall outline of this shape is a heart, but when it is faceted, it can be called a heart-shaped cut. A well-finished heart-shaped cut features 57 facets. 

Also Read: What is the Difference Between Precious and Semi-Precious Stones?

Understanding Gemstone Cuts

Gem cuts are a craft accomplished by lapidaries. They are skilled in assuming the shape and cutting the gem to such perfection that it reflects beautiful color, clarity, and brilliance. These cutting styles are faceted and nonfaceted. Faceted gemstones are cut with flat surfaces all around the gemstone shape. The more clear and polished the facet is, the higher is its color reflection. Different types of Gem cuts are as follows:

Asscher Cut: Asscher cut stones gained popularity in the 1920's. They were considered perfect for engagement rings. This cut was initially popular for diamonds, but today, these have become popular with colored gemstones. Asscher cut is a modified emerald cut with an octagonal shape and larger step facets.

Learn More: How to Choose the Ideal Shape of Stones for Rings?

Emerald Cut: This cut features a rectangular shape and long parallel step cuts. Emerald cut first originated on emerald stone. This was developed to prevent Panna Ratna from breaking from corners. It also enhances the emerald color and clarity.

Learn More: Radiant Vs Emerald Cut - Difference Between The Two!

Briolette Cut: It features a pear-shaped faceted all over. This gem cut gives a chandelier effect, highlighting its popularity in jewelry. Briolette cut is the most difficult cut since the entire surface features facets, and the art is only performed by skilled artisans.

Read More Here: Know The Different Types of Briolette Cut

Differences Between Shape and Cut

The Role of Shape and Cut in Gemstone Value

Gemstone cuts play an important role in astrology and jewelry also. Well-cut stones with symmetrical ends reflect more light and color. A defined cut impacts the gemstone value as well. While buying a natural gemstone, one of the 4C’s factors is cut. 

For instance, a symmetrically cut blue sapphire stone meets all the standards of the 4Cs (cut, clarity, carat weight, color) and adds value to the piece. Thus, it also increases the gemstone’s monetary value. 

Choosing an ideal gem shape for a ring is equally important. Astrologically, an oval shape holds significant meaning, whereas, for jewelry, one can opt for different shapes like octagons, squares, trillion, or more.