Types of cabochons cut at Nevada Cassidys

At Nevada Cassidys the natural shape of the stones we cut directs which cut goes with which stone. Here are the typical types of cabochons we cut.

Stardard Pillow Dome: This is the standard cut for most stones that have a central mass to their natural shape.

High Dome: Some stones that are not selected as bead material get cut as high domes, the natural bulk allows for large windows that look into the turquoise and matrix pattern.

Flat Top: This type of cut is mostly for slabbed or vein stones that have a flat side. The flat top presents the color with a bold uncontained surface so large faced stones can have a maximum face side. These work well with bolos & buckles without adding much weight. Small flat tops are also good for certain ring, bracelet or earring settings that call for a flat polished side.

Off Center Dome: Stones that are uneven or were cut from boulder material can have an off center mass, some of these stones can still take a dome form, however the main peak is not set equidistant from the sides.

Relief Top: Relief tops frame a natural surface like a botroydial form or smooth live edge of a turquoise stone. These are special cuts that showcase rare material that needs little polishing, or that the polishing will remove the best part of the stone. Some of these stones are carefully tumbled multiple times before shaping.