Faceting is the science of dimensionally cutting, then polishing a gemstone or similar material. Gemstones in their natural or uncut state are referred to as "Rough". The rough is carefully examined to determine its physical and optical properties. Now the faceter can align the rough to achieve the desired brilliance and directional proportionalities for the cuts. The so called "cutting" is a grinding process using gradually finer abrasive discs that cut away the material in minute quantities. The faceter is careful on his settings. so as to achieve identical proportions for each facet in a particular series of  facets. Each facet can then be polished to near perfection. The finished piece is truly a work of art, one in which the cutter takes a fanciful pride. This is perhaps one of  the greatest  manmade transformations of material that can be witnessed.

Faceting Diagram

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