Fundamentals of Lapidary
Birdseye view of the cuts, tools and techniques involved in lapidary arts, i.e. cutting or forming gemstones.
Lapidary Fundamentals: Cutting Rough Stones
Learn the best techniques and tools for cutting rough stones. Making small pieces from big pieces is one of the most basic procedures in the lapidary arts.
Lapidary Fundamentals: Gemstone Tumbling
Gemstone tumbling is the simplest and least expensive lapidary art to learn. These guidelines can help you choose the right equipment and get started.
Lapidary Fundamentals: Cabochon Cutting
Cabochon cutting is the most popular lapidary art. With practice, you can master this skill. Learn the tools and techniques, as well as a few tricks, here.
Lapidary Fundamentals: Gemstone Faceting
Learn the basic procedures of gemstone faceting. This walkthrough for a standard round brilliant cut gem includes cutting instructions and pics.
A Guide to Gem Cutting Styles
Gem cutting styles refer to the shape and arrangement of facets. The three most basic styles are brilliant, step, and mixed. Learn what characterizes these types of cuts and how faceters combine them to create many different gem designs.
Glossary of Faceting Terms and Definitions
A glossary of frequently encountered faceting terms for the student gemologist. Our list covers gemology, gem cutting, and equipment.
