Natural and synthetic stone cabochons for DIY jewelry

How to choose a natural stone cabochon?

A cabochon is a polished stone, usually with a domed surface and no drilling. Unlike beads, it is designed to be set, glued, or mounted on a setting specially designed to accommodate its shape and dimensions.

The choice of a cabochon depends primarily on its shape, dimensions, and the stone used. Oval cabochons measuring 18x13 mm or 25x18 mm are among the most commonly used sizes in artisanal jewelry because they easily adapt to many pendant and ring settings.

Some stones reveal spectacular visual effects when cut into a cabochon. This is particularly true for labradorite and its reflections, moonstone, malachite with its natural veins, landscape jasper, or tiger's eye.

Cabochons also highlight the natural particularities of each stone: inclusions, color nuances, marbling, or unique patterns. Each cabochon thus becomes a unique piece.

To ensure perfect compatibility, always check the dimensions of the cabochon and the setting before purchasing. An 18x13 mm setting is designed to accommodate a cabochon of the same dimensions.

To complete your creations, discover our cabochons and settings for DIY jewelry, our natural stone beads, our pendant settings for cabochonsas well as our supplies for personalized jewelry.

FAQs

How to choose the size of a natural stone cabochon?

The size of the cabochon mainly depends on the piece of jewelry to be made. Sizes 10 to 14 mm are perfect for earrings, while dimensions 18x13 mm, 20 mm, or 25x18 mm are often used for pendants and rings. It is essential to check compatibility with the chosen setting.

What's the difference between a cabochon and a natural stone bead?

A bead is drilled to be threaded onto a string or wire. A cabochon is an undrilled stone intended to be set or glued onto a support. The cabochon generally highlights the natural patterns, inclusions, and optical effects of certain stones better.

What bases should I use with natural stone cabochons?

Cabochons are compatible with pendant settings, tray rings, earring settings, cabochon bracelets, and some specialized bezels. They can also be integrated into resin creations or paired with natural beads to make unique jewelry.