A cabochon is the name given to a gemstone or other material that has been polished and shaped into a piece that has a convex top and a smooth, flat bottom. This is opposed to similar designs that may have been faceted. This process is more common for opaque gemstones or opaque acrylic pieces, as this technique really helps bring out the beauty of the piece. This technique also helps reduce the visibility of scratches that can occur naturally in some gemstones. If the piece is faceted, the scratches can be accentuated. Although rare gemstone cabochons are extremely beautiful, they can be very expensive to purchase. Therefore, financial constraints have encouraged hobbyists to look for more affordable alternatives. This is just one of the reasons why acrylic cabochons are becoming increasingly popular with jewelers and crafters alike. Fortunately, although acrylic cabochons are much more affordable, they can be just as beautiful as gemstone ones.
This type of gemstone or acrylic cut is incredibly popular, because there are so many varied uses for them in the modern world. Many of the things we describe as “jeweled” are actually covered with cabochons. If you look at many beautiful historic church goblets, sword hilts, or royal thrones, you will notice that they are embellished with gemstone cabochons. Acrylic versions are often used instead of gemstone ones in historical re-enactments because they are much cheaper, but still look very realistic. In fact, when acrylic items are used, the possibilities are almost endless. They can be used in jewelry making, clothing design, arts and crafts, and home decor. These items are so easy to use that the only thing that really limits you is your imagination!
Acrylic cabochons are often mounted on silver or metallic backs, to further accentuate the beauty of the piece. Although gemstone cabochons are usually mounted in metal, one of the latest trends with acrylic cabochons is mounting them on the original plastic back, to give a modern, modern look to a vintage, vintage style. The shape of the back piece can be similar to the shape of the cabochon and follow its main contours, or the shape can be very different. For example, a round acrylic piece could be mounted in the center of a flower-shaped back piece, for stunning effect. Although this is very simple, it looks very beautiful. This level of freedom gives acrylic cabochon makers and buyers a wide variety of styles and colors to choose from, meaning the jewelry that is ultimately created is almost out of this world.
Cabochons are frequently used to make necklace pendants, although there is a much wider range of things that can be made with them. If you buy two matching acrylic cabochons, it is possible to turn them into a pair of drop earrings. It is even possible to turn smaller cabochons into charms for a charm bracelet.
