A cabochon, pronounced cab-uh-shon, is a gemstone that has been shaped and polished rather than faceted. Cabochon gemstones generally have a smooth, domed top surface and a flat base. The term “cabochon” describes the stone’s appearance, not its type or authenticity. Both genuine and artificial gemstones can feature a cabochon cut. Find out more about cabochons in our post here.
Cabochon jewelry, synonymous with the screen idols of Old Hollywood, is making a grand reentrance on red carpets, acclaimed brand campaigns—practically everywhere. Iconic figures like Elizabeth Taylor, Grace Kelley, and Marilyn Monroe were known to partake heavily in this style. The ongoing popularity of statement and vintage jewelry has contributed to the comeback of pieces showcasing juicy cabochon-cut gemstones. One red-carpet example is the emerald cabochon necklace worn by Zendaya at the Venice Film Festival in 2021. Like the rest of the star’s look, it has a contemporary edge but nods to the charm of the Golden Age of Hollywood, proving that cabochon gems remain every bit as enthralling today as they were back then.
Cabochon Rings
Stack smaller to mid-size cabochon rings with other bands, but allow larger stones to stand out on their own. The featured cabochon sapphire ring surprises with channel–set diamonds on the shank—truly hidden gems in every sense. Turkish designer Gurhan has a penchant for art, history, and culture and works exclusively with pure 24k gold to craft its precious pieces. If jewelry is a reflection of the world’s riches, Gurhan knows how to capture it with finesse.
Cabochon Earrings
Cabochon earrings are a fitting accessory for bohemian and festival-inspired outfits. Pair large, colorful cabochon earrings with breezy, patterned dresses or tunics for a free-spirited, eclectic look. Gemstones like moonstone, opal, labradorite, and lapis lazuli grasp the mystical, earthy essence of artistic fashion. The marquise-shaped opal cabochon earrings shown are nestled in a smooth bezel setting, accentuating and protecting the stones.
Cabochon Necklaces
Emulate the timeless and understated style of Grace Kelley by coupling cabochon necklaces with refined and polished outfits such as tailored suits and classic A-line dresses. Depending on your neckline and the size of the piece, consider layering additional necklaces. The garnet cabochon pendant displayed is rich against its rose gold setting, emitting an enchanting purple hue.
Cabochon Bracelets
The pictured turquoise cabochon bracelet is part of Marco Bicego’s Siviglia collection, inspired by the cobblestone streets of its namesake European city. We recommend adding evil eye jewelry to your ensemble for a touch of mysticism and protection. Combining your bracelet with a watch can dress up or balance out your attire. A matching watch will create a cohesive appearance, while one with contrasting metals and textures is more avant-garde.
No matter your fashion preferences, these use cases demonstrate that cabochon jewelry complements any aesthetic.
The unique allure of cabochon jewelry has certainly caught our attention. Thanks to its depth, the cabochon cut intensifies the hue of colored stones while amplifying the optical effects seen in some. Beyond their appearance, cabochons offer several practical benefits. The smooth finish of round cabochons ensures comfort and prevents snagging on clothing or hair. Additionally, their sleek surface allows for easy cleaning and maintenance, minimizing concerns about scratches or damage. The durability of cabochon gems is ideal for everyday wear and a lifetime of enjoyment.
Cabochons are back, conveying all the glamour of the past. Celebrities are leaning into this trend and you can too. Cabochons are relatively inexpensive compared to other gemstones, making them a great option for those seeking a cost-effective way to own jewelry. Shop fetching and affordable cabochon jewelry online and in-store today.
