kantbezel

kantbezel is a design term used to describe a bezel profile in jewelry and timepieces that emphasizes angular geometry and flat facets rather than rounded curves. The term is a contemporary neologism rather than a traditional technical category, and its exact meaning can vary by designer or brand. In general, a kantbezel frames a gem or crystal with sharply defined edges and a stepped or faceted outer rim to create optical planes that catch light at multiple angles.

The name is commonly interpreted as a blend of bezel with kant, a root evoking edge or boundary in some design vocabularies. Because there is no universal standard for kantbezel geometry, practitioners describe different implementations, such as flat kantbezel (a single plane that sits flush with the case or setting), stepped kantbezel (one or more raised or recessed ledges creating tiers), and faceted kantbezel (multiple small facets around the edge). In jewelry and horology, kantbezel designs are used to achieve a modern, architectural look and can influence how a stone is perceived as well as how a case catches light.

Manufacturing considerations include precision milling or CNC routing to maintain crisp angles, and careful finishing to avoid burrs that dull the edges. The term remains informal and is most commonly found in catalogs, design articles, and discussion forums rather than standardized technical manuals. Related topics include bezel, edge geometry, jewelry design, and watchmaking.