Different Gemstone Shapes You Can Cut With a Lapidary Saw

posted by Emma Radebaugh

Transform raw stones into art with a lapidary saw. Learn how to cut beautiful gemstone shapes like squares, ovals, and cabochons for your creations.

BY EMMA RADEBOUGH, ARTCENTRON

Top Gemstone Shapes to Cut with a Lapidary Saw

When it comes to cutting gemstones with a lapidary saw, the possibilities are endless—each shape offers a unique way to enhance the stone’s natural beauty, from classic rounds to intricate custom cuts. For those who love polishing raw stones, learning about the different gemstone shapes you can cut with a lapidary saw can take your creations to the next level. Let’s explore some of the most fascinating shapes you can bring to life.

1. Cabochons

Cabochons, or “cabs,” are one of the most popular gemstone shapes. They are dome-shaped stones with flat backs. This elegant shape enhances a gemstone’s natural colors and patterns, making it ideal for pendants and rings.

Using a lapidary saw, you can produce evenly cut slabs that serve as the foundation for shaping a perfect cabochon. Stones like turquoise, jasper, and opal are commonly cab shapes.

2. Faceted Gems

Faceted stones sparkle in fine jewelry with multiple flat sides, or facets, that reflect light. While faceting is typically done with specialized machines, a lapidary saw shapes the rough stone into the basic outline before faceting begins. Popular faceted shapes include round, princess, and pear cuts.

3. Freeform Shapes

If structured shapes aren’t your vibe, freeform cuts are the way to go. They allow creative freedom, letting the stone dictate its final shape.

This is an excellent way to highlight the natural features of stones. A lapidary saw helps you carefully slice and trim stones into irregular, organic shapes full of personality.

4. Square and Rectangular Cuts

Designers favor geometric shapes like squares and rectangles for their modern look. They often use these shapes in crafting statement jewelry or decorative inlays for furniture and mosaics.

A lapidary saw is ideal for creating precise edges and clean corners in these designs. Materials like onyx, malachite, and quartz are perfect for this approach.

5. Ovals

Ovals are a timeless classic in gemstone cutting. They offer the elegance of round shapes but with a more elongated design.

You can easily cut oval shapes using a lapidary saw by starting with precise oval templates or rough sketches on your slabs. Further refining and polishing can help you achieve a perfect oval finish after the basic shape is cut.

6. Slices

Sometimes, the beauty of a gemstone lies in its inner patterns. This is evident in agate banding or labradorite’s color flashes. Cutting thin, polished slices is the best way to showcase these features. This technique is particularly suited for creating unique display pieces, ornaments, or layered jewelry.

Final Thoughts on Gemstone Cutting

The different gemstone shapes you can cut with a lapidary saw give you plenty of options for your artistry. From smooth cabochons that fit timeless designs to unique freeform pieces that capture raw beauty, a lapidary saw is the tool to transform rough stones into polished treasures.

If you’re getting into lapidary as a hobby, learning everything you should know about lapidary slab saws will make the process easier. It can also invite more creative possibilities and keep you safe as you work.

Finally, don’t forget that the beauty of lapidary work lies in experimenting and letting the stone guide you. Grab your saw and start crafting.