Faceters

Faceters are craftsmen who cut gemstone crystals into a precise arrangement of flat faces, or facets, to enhance brilliance, color dispersion, and symmetry. They work with a range of gemstone materials, including diamonds, sapphires, garnets, topaz, and quartz. The practice requires a combination of geometric planning, tactile skill, and careful measurement to maximize light performance and remove flaws.

Core tools include a faceting machine mounted on a workbench, a dop stick to hold the rough stone, and a selection of diamond laps and polishing laps. Faceters set the stone in the dop, align the facet angles with index gears, and grind away material against a rotating lap. The process proceeds in stages, typically starting with blocking to establish the table, followed by successive crowns and pavilion facets, and finishing with polishing to a high gloss. Cooling and cleaning are important to prevent microcracking.

Professional faceters may work independently, in gem-cutting shops, or for jewelry houses. They produce cut stones for sale, compete in judging events, and often repeat standardized facet patterns to ensure consistency. The craft requires a steady hand, good eyesight or magnification, and knowledge of gem geometry, material properties, and abrasion characteristics. Ethical and quality considerations include avoiding treatment surprises and disclosing any gemstone enhancements.

History and practice have evolved from early hand-cut methods to precision machines in the 20th century; modern faceting often incorporates computerized index systems and laser-guided measurements, though many faceters rely on traditional skills. The term faceter may also refer to hobbyists who facet as a pastime, contributing to gem shows and online communities that share patterns, techniques, and metadata about stones.