Most people think of gemstones and picture the round-cut diamond in an engagement ring. But the universe of Gemstone Cuts is richer and more surprising than what we usually see in the windows of jewellery stores. Buried in the history of lapidary art are a few cuts that most jewellery enthusiasts and even general collectors have never heard of. These Gemstone Cuts not only change how a stone looks, but also how it plays with light, colour, and personality.
In this blog, we’ll explore five fascinating Gemstone Cuts that deserve more attention. Whether you’re a collector, a jewellery enthusiast, or just someone curious about the beauty of rare stones, these unusual Gemstone Cuts will open your eyes to the artistry behind every gem.
Why Gemstone Cuts Matter
Before we explore the more uncommon styles, let's learn why Gemstone Cuts are a big deal. Cutting a gemstone is not merely about shaping it; it’s about releasing its inner brilliance. The proper cut brings out colour, increases sparkle, and even transforms the mood of the piece. While we know of round, oval, or princess cuts, these don’t even scratch the surface of the creativity jewellers have when it comes to Gemstone Cuts.
Unusual Gemstone Cuts typically have a story to tell. They emerge from cultural heritage, artistic innovations, or even the unusual properties of the stone in question. And sometimes, they completely revolutionise how we look at the stone itself.
1. The Briolette Cut
The Briolette is one of the oldest known Gemstone Cuts, yet it often flies under the radar. Imagine a teardrop-shaped stone covered in tiny triangular facets all around its surface. This cut doesn’t have a table or flat top; instead, light bounces from every angle.
Traditionally, the Briolette was popular in royal courts. Queens and nobles adorned necklaces with Briolette-cut diamonds and sapphires. Nowadays, it’s unusual because the cut is time-consuming and requires a master lapidary artist. If you see a Briolette, you are viewing one of the most elegant Gemstone Cuts ever designed.
2. The Rose Cut
The Rose Cut goes back to the 16th century and is one of the most historic Gemstone Cuts. It looks like a rose in bloom, with a flat base and a domed crown covered in triangular facets. Unlike modern brilliant cuts, the Rose Cut does not shimmer so brightly under artificial light, but under candlelight, it glows like a fairytale.
Over the past few years, the Rose Cut has staged a low-key comeback. Designers adore applying it to rustic, vintage-style jewellery. It’s a reminder that not all Gemstone Cuts are about maximum brilliance; some are about mood, romance, and narrative.
3. The Trillion Cut
Everybody is familiar with round and oval stones, but the Trillion cut, also referred to as the Trilliant, is a daring triangular design. It is great for coloured stones such as tanzanite or Citrine since it accentuates vivid colours while showing off trendy, geometric elegance.
What’s special about the Trillion is its versatility. It can work as a centre gem in a ring or as side stones to accentuate a larger gem. Its angular lines and lively brilliance make it one of the boldest Gemstone Cuts for those who desire jewellery that feels different.
4. The Asscher Cut
The Asscher cut may sound familiar, but few jewellery enthusiasts have had the pleasure of seeing it in person. This cropped-corner square cut resembles a mix of the emerald cut and square brilliant cut. With its step-like facets, the Asscher creates a “hall of mirrors” effect that draws your eye deep into the stone.
Invented in the early 1900s, the Asscher became famous during the Art Deco era. While it’s not as common as the round brilliant, it remains one of the most striking Gemstone Cuts for those who prefer elegance with a touch of vintage flair.
5. The Cushion Cut (Antique Style)
You may be familiar with the modern Cushion Cut, but the antique version tells a completely different story. The vintage style features larger facets and a softer, pillow-like outline. Unlike the modern brilliant variant, the antique Cushion Cut emphasises warmth and depth rather than sparkle.
Collectors often say this is one of the most romantic Gemstone Cuts because it gives gems a timeless look, as though they belong in a royal crown. For jewellery lovers with an eye for history, the antique Cushion Cut is a hidden treasure in lapidary design.
Why Rare Gemstone Cuts Deserve More Love
The beauty of unique Gemstone Cuts is that they defy expectations. Rather than chasing brilliance alone, they honour individuality, tradition, and artistry. When you wear one of these rare Gemstone Cuts, you’re carrying a piece of history and craftsmanship that few people on this planet own.
For collectors, unusual Gemstone Cuts may even increase the value of a stone. Since they’re not mass-produced, they stand out at auctions and in private collections. For jewellery enthusiasts, they provide a chance to own something personal and unique.
The Emotional Side of Unique Gemstone Cuts
Jewellery isn’t just about beauty, it’s about connection. When someone chooses one of these distinctive Gemstone Cuts, they’re also choosing a narrative. A Briolette whispers of royal courts; a Rose Cut glows like a candlelit secret; a Trillion speaks of bold decisions; an Asscher reflects Art Deco chic; and an antique Cushion Cut transports you into a world of ageless romance.
These aren’t just shapes. Their experiences are frozen in stone. And that’s the true magic of Gemstone Cuts, which few have ever heard of.
Conclusion
When you step into a jewellery shop, it’s easy to think the world revolves around round brilliants and princess cuts. But step deeper, and you’ll uncover a universe of imagination woven into lapidary history.
From Briolette to Rose, Trillion to Asscher, and the antique Cushion, these five Gemstone Cuts remind us that beauty has many forms. They show that jewellery isn’t just about what sparkles the brightest, it’s about what tells the most intriguing story.
So the next time you’re admiring a glimmering stone, ask yourself: What cut is it? Because the most fascinating Gemstone Cuts may be the ones you’ve never heard of at all.
FAQ’s
Why are gemstones so special?
Gems are valued for their colour, lustre, transparency, durability, and high value-to-volume ratio.
Which gemstone cut is best?
A brilliant cut is ideal for the most sparkle and intense brilliance, although this cut tends to be more expensive than other cuts.
What is the most difficult gemstone cut?
The cut offers more weight per carat than any other cut, creating an illusion of a larger gemstone. One of the most difficult shapes to cut, the Briolette cut is a pear-shaped or drop-shaped stone.
How does a gemstone's cut affect its value?
Cut refers to how well the proportions, symmetry, and polish are executed rather than its shape. How well a gem is cut can greatly affect the overall value because of its influence on colour.
What damages gemstones?
Cutting, polishing, setting, Wear and tear, Soldering (heat, tensions), Cleaning (ultrasonic, acid, solvents)
What is the most popular diamond cut right now?
ROUND BRILLIANT DIAMOND By far the most popular cut is the Round Brilliant, with its fifty-seven perfectly aligned facets; its brilliance really does outshine the others.
