Briolette

A briolette is a gemstone cut in which the entire surface is covered with facets and the stone is shaped into a drop- or pendant-like form. Unlike flatter cuts, the briolette is a three-dimensional, bead-like cut whose facets extend over the crown, pavilion, and girdle, producing a continuous sparkle as light enters from any angle. The shape is typically elongated teardrop or pear-like, though it can be oval or round in cross-section. The stone is drilled through near its apex to enable suspension as a dangling pendant or bead.

The faceting pattern usually consists of triangular or diamond-shaped facets arranged in concentric rows around the stone. This extensive facet coverage maximizes brilliance, but the cut requires careful symmetry and precise finishing. Briolettes are commonly applied to diamonds and other gemstones such as quartz, topaz, and emerald, and are favored for dramatic pendant drops and earrings.

Historically, the briolette cut has deep roots in ancient and medieval jewelry making. The Briolette of India, a famous historic diamond cut in this style, helped popularize the form. The cut enjoyed particular popularity in Victorian and early 20th-century jewelry and remains relatively rare in modern practice due to its labor-intensive nature and relative fragility.

Etymology and usage: The term briolette is believed to derive from French, reflecting its bead-like, pendant-ready character. In modern contexts it is often described as a vintage or statement-cut, prized for its distinctive, all-around sparkle.