CABOCHON

A cabochon is a Gem that is polished but not faceted, meaning it lacks the multiple facets. It most often takes a rounded shape, in the form of a half-sphere or a dome with a flat base, obtained by grinding and Polishing. This ancient cut highlights the color, translucency and certain optical phenomena of the stone, such as asterism (star effect) or chatoyancy (cat’s eye). In watchmaking, the cabochon is frequently used for decorative purposes, particularly to set the top of winding crowns and pushers: a rounded stone — often a Sapphire, sometimes a spinel or another colored gem — adds a distinctive touch of elegance, a signature feature of several watchmaking houses. Cabochons can also be found on buckles and various External parts (case, dial, hands). Simple in shape but refined, the cabochon illustrates the meeting between gemology and haute horlogerie in the service of decorative detail.