DAZZLED BY BRILLIANCE

Gemstones have hypnotised humanity for centuries—but their brilliance arises not from nature alone. It is the intricate work of Lapidaries (gem cutters) that converts a rough stone into a masterpiece of light and colour. Each cut tells its own story, revealing the gem’s hidden clarity and fire in a unique way. Gemstone cuts evolved particularly in the middle ages and modern cuts are emerging to this day. The most common cuts are shown in the photo.

Perhaps the most famous is the brilliant cut, designed to maximize sparkle in diamonds in particular. With 58 facets, it transforms rough diamonds into shimmering stars. Then there’s the princess cut, modern and edgy, with sharp angles that catch the light like glass skyscrapers in the sun. For those who prefer timeless elegance, the emerald cut offers a window-like clarity—its long, rectangular facets creating a serene “hall of mirrors” effect, perfect for emeralds and diamonds alike.

Vintage lovers might adore the cushion cut, soft and romantic with rounded corners reminiscent of old-world glamour. Meanwhile, the oval and marquise cuts elongate the stone—and the finger—offering grace and sophistication. The pear cut, with its teardrop shape, blends drama and delicacy in one luminous droplet.

Every cut balances science and art, mathematics and imagination, beauty and elegance. The Lapidary must read each stone’s soul and choose the perfect cut to reveal its brightest unique personality.