Gems can be cut in a variety of different styles. Almost all faceted gems are variations on one of three main cut styles: brilliant cut, step cut, and mixed cut.

 

Style – The arrangement of a stone’s facets.

Brilliant cut – Cutting style with triangular or kite-shaped facets that radiate from the center toward the girdle.

Step cut – Cutting style with mainly square and rectangular facets arranged in concentric rows.

Mixed cut – Cutting style that combines brilliant and step cut styles.

 

Photo: Joel Beeson. Courtesy: GIA.

Resource: Amanda. #eClarity