A Guide to The Art and Evolution of Gemstone Cuts
Gemstone cutting, known as lapidary, is an ancient art that has shaped the beauty and brilliance of gemstones for millennia. Join me on a journey through history as we explore the origins of lapidary, the development of cutting techniques, and the significance of different gemstone cuts in jewelry design. Origins of Lapidary: From Cave Era to Modern Craft Lapidary, derived from the Latin word "lapis" meaning stone, refers to the art of cutting, shaping, and polishing gemstones. The practice likely began in prehistoric times when early humans first discovered the aesthetic and functional properties of stones. Initially used for tools and weapons, stones were shaped using basic percussion and abrasion techniques. The first evidence of deliberate stone drilling and bruting...