French cut
A small square step cut whose crown facets form a cross, used in rows in Art Deco jewels.
The French cut is a square step cut whose crown facets meet to form a cross or star pattern on top of the stone. It appears as early as the seventeenth century, but it is most associated with Art Deco jewelry, where rows of French-cut diamonds or sapphires outline geometric designs.
Its crisp, square outline lets stones sit edge to edge, creating a continuous line of light.
What to look for
Look for even, sharp corners and a well-defined cross pattern. In a row, the stones should match in size and be set tightly.
In the collection
French cut, available now
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