IGS Background

Hielo: Faceting Design Diagram


Successful tips, details, and guide on Faceting Designs. A Faceting Design Diagram by Jeff R. Graham that presents various cuts, this one is called "Hielo".

By Jeff R. Graham, updated on

Tourmaline (Achroite, Dravite, Rubellite, Indicolite, Verdelite, Siberite)

Hielo (MIR36.JRG)
By Jeff R. Graham
Copyright 2004
86.9% Light Return
Angles for R.I. = 1.62
27 facets + 6 facets on girdle = 33
3-fold symmetry
72 index
L/W = 1.048 P/W = 0.388 C/W = 0.193
H/W = (P+C)/W+0.02 = 0.601
P/H = 0.646 C/H = 0.321
Vol./W^3 = 0.178

Addition # 9 - This is interesting to cut and has a unique reflection. Cut in refractive indexes 1.62 to 2.14 with no changes. This is a neat earring design and works well in most material. Try it in Ametrine for an unusual stone.


Random - Cosine - ISO

Detailed faceting instructions by Jeff Graham available at The Rock Peddler

Never Stop Learning

When you join the IGS community, you get trusted diamond & gemstone information when you need it.

Become a Member

Get Gemology Insights

Get started with the International Gem Society’s free guide to gemstone identification. Join our weekly newsletter & get a free copy of the Gem ID Checklist!