Facet
Videos
Facets are flat faces on geometric shapes. The organization of naturally occurring facets was key to early developments in crystallography, since they reflect the underlying symmetry of the crystal st
A faceted amethyst
A 19th century tiara with blue sapphires and diamonds, cut in old European style.
An amethyst on a dop stick in a faceting machine
Moving an amethyst from one dop stick to another using a transfer jig.
Diamond cutting
Videos
Diamond cutting is the practice of shaping a diamond from a rough stone into a faceted gem. Cutting diamonds requires specialized knowledge, tools, equipment, and techniques because of its extreme dif
Man-powered diamond cutting mill in 18th century
The 253-carat Oppenheimer Diamond—an uncut diamond does not show its prized optical properties
Diamond polisher in Amsterdam. Polishing is carried out by forcing a diamond against a spinning disk with abrasive.
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