Some Thoughts about quality

At studio1gems, we offer three different levels of cutting quality: “Gem Standard”, “Standard PLUS“ and “Designer’s Choice”.  

Faceted stones and cabochons cut to the Gem Standard level of cutting quality are what are sometimes referred to as “native cut” goods. This is the quality level most commonly seen in mass-produced  discount store jewelry. In these pieces, a stone’s size and shape are considered to be more important than its color and clarity , with the shapes, sizes, placement, symmetry,  flatness and finish of facets considerably less so. The quality may not be consistent from stone to stone, but if price is the primary consideration, these offer the most material for the lowest price. 

With Standard PLUS, the facet symmetry, shape, position and overall appearance improve, as does the face-up appearance, but as the quality of craftsmanship increases, so does the price,   

At the pinnacle of fine craftsmanship, our Designer’s Choice quality features facets which are meticulously arranged in patterns chosen to  maximize brilliance and scintillation.  Designer’s Choice gems feature perfectly flat facets that are polished to perfection with either 60,000 or 100,000 mesh diamond, and cabochons are polished with either 60,000 mesh diamond or oxides for the finest finishes possible. Because so many more hours of time and effort are invested into the design, preparation and craftsmanship of each Designer’s Choice gem, their prices are significantly higher, as well. These fine pieces will hold their own against the Diamonds that surround them in the finest jewelry.