This site has limited support for your browser. We recommend switching to Edge, Chrome, Safari, or Firefox.

Free Domestic Shipping over $250 Lifetime Warranty Buy Now Pay Later

Handcrafted & Fully Customized Jewelry Made in US Made to Order

Cabochon vs. Faceted Gems: What's the Difference and How to Style Them

Gems are the shining stars of jewelry, captivating us with their sparkle, color, and brilliance. But not all gems are created equal—at least not in the way they’re cut and presented. If you’ve ever wondered about the difference between a cabochon and a faceted gem, or how to style each one, you’re in the right place. These two types of gemstones each have their own charm, history, and best uses, and knowing how to work them into your wardrobe can elevate your jewelry game to new heights.

In this guide, we’ll break down what is a cabochon, what is a faceted gem, and how to incorporate these dazzling pieces into your personal style. Plus, we’ll highlight some stunning examples from Bounkit’s collection that showcase the best of both worlds.

What is a Cabochon?

A cabochon is a gemstone that has been shaped and polished rather than faceted. It features a smooth, domed surface on top and a flat or slightly curved base. This style of cutting, known as "en cabochon," has been used for centuries, especially for opaque or translucent stones like turquoise, onyx, and moonstone.

Unlike faceted gems, which are designed to reflect light, cabochons emphasize the stone’s natural color, texture, and unique inclusions. Their soft, rounded appearance lends them an organic and timeless quality, making them perfect for creating jewelry with a vintage or bohemian vibe.

Styling Cabochons

Cabochons are versatile and pair well with both casual and formal outfits. Their understated elegance makes them an excellent choice for everyday wear, while their bold colors and smooth textures can add a touch of drama to evening attire. For example:

  • Scarlet Earrings: Featuring idocrase cabochons with amethyst and rose quartz, these earrings offer a sophisticated yet playful pop of color. Pair them with a flowy dress or a tailored blazer for a balanced look.

 

 

 

  • Tessa Earrings: With their cabochon white agate stones, these earrings exude a refined simplicity that complements minimalist outfits.

Tessa Earrings

For a contemporary twist, mix cabochon jewelry with textured fabrics like knits or velvets to create a tactile contrast that’s both eye-catching and chic.

 

What is a Faceted Gem?

A faceted gem is cut with multiple flat surfaces, or "facets," that are strategically angled to maximize the stone’s brilliance and sparkle. This technique, developed during the Renaissance, is most often used for transparent stones like diamonds, quartz, and sapphires. The facets act as tiny mirrors, reflecting and refracting light to create a dazzling effect.

Faceted gems are synonymous with glamour and are often used in statement pieces designed to catch the light and turn heads.

Styling Faceted Gems

Faceted gems are all about sparkle, so they’re ideal for occasions that call for a little extra shine. They’re also surprisingly adaptable, ranging from subtle accents to show-stopping centerpieces. Consider these examples:

  • Emerson Earrings: Featuring faceted blue quartz, amethyst, and clear quartz, these earrings are perfect for adding a touch of brilliance to a little black dress or even a crisp white shirt.

Emerson Earrings
  • Dhaka Earrings: With faceted green amethyst, green onyx, and black onyx, these earrings make a bold statement. Wear them with sleek, monochromatic outfits to let the gemstones take center stage.

 

Dhaka Earrings

 

For daytime events, opt for smaller, more understated faceted pieces, and save the larger, bolder designs for evening wear or special occasions.

Cabochon vs. Faceted Gems: Key Differences

When choosing between cabochon and faceted gems, it helps to understand the main differences:

  1. Appearance: Cabochons have a smooth, rounded surface, while faceted gems are cut with multiple angles to reflect light.

  2. Light Interaction: Faceted gems sparkle and shimmer due to their reflective surfaces, whereas cabochons highlight the stone’s natural color and inclusions.

  3. Stone Types: Cabochons are typically used for opaque or translucent stones, while faceted cuts are common for transparent, light-reflective gems.

How to Combine Cabochon and Faceted Gems

Why choose between cabochons and faceted gems when you can enjoy the best of both? Mixing these two styles creates a dynamic look that’s full of texture and visual interest. Here are some tips:

  • Pair a cabochon necklace with faceted stud earrings to balance softness and sparkle.

  • Combine a faceted bracelet with cabochon rings for a layered, eclectic aesthetic.

  • Choose pieces like the Scarlet Earrings, which feature both cabochon and faceted stones, for a harmonious blend of the two styles.

Why We Love Cabochons and Faceted Gems at Bounkit

At Bounkit, we believe every gemstone tells a story, and the way it’s cut plays a big role in how that story unfolds. Whether it’s the timeless allure of a cabochon or the dazzling brilliance of a faceted gem, each piece in our collection is designed to celebrate the beauty and individuality of the stones we work with.

Take the Scarlet Earrings, for instance. With their cabochon idocrase and faceted amethyst, they capture the best of both styles, offering versatility and elegance in one stunning design. Or consider the Dhaka Earrings, where faceted green amethyst and onyx create a dramatic, bold look perfect for making a statement.

Find Your Perfect Gemstone Match

Whether you’re drawn to the smooth, organic appeal of cabochons or the light-catching sparkle of faceted gems, there’s a style for every taste and occasion. Explore Bounkit’s collection to find pieces that resonate with your personal style and discover the joy of incorporating both cabochon and faceted gems into your wardrobe.

Cabochon or faceted, understated or bold, each gem has its own unique beauty—just like you. And with Bounkit’s handcrafted designs, you can be sure that every piece is as special as the moments you’ll create while wearing it.

Browse our collections today and let your jewelry tell your story!

Shop The Collection;" data-enable="" data-cookie-name="popup-1-popups" >

Cart

No more products available for purchase

Your cart is currently empty.