Our natural cabochon gemstones are carefully selected for color, quality and beauty. The smooth domed surface highlights the natural patterns and optical effects of many gems, making cabochons ideal for unique jewelry designs.
Cabochon Gemstones Online
Buy cabochon gemstones online at GemSelect with confidence. We offer a wide selection of loose cabochon gems including opal, moonstone, turquoise, labradorite and many more, all available with secure checkout and worldwide shipping.
What Are Cabochon Cut Gemstones?
Cabochon cut gemstones feature a polished, rounded top with a flat or slightly domed base instead of facets. This classic gemstone cut is used to emphasize color, transparency, and special optical effects such as star stones, chatoyancy, and color play.
Popular Cabochon Gemstones
Many gemstones are traditionally cut as cabochons. Popular choices include opal cabochons with vibrant color play, moonstone cabochons displaying adularescence, turquoise cabochons prized for their rich color, and star sapphires that show asterism.
Cabochon Stones for Jewelry
Cabochon stones are widely used in rings, pendants, bracelets and earrings. Their smooth surface and bold appearance make them ideal for bezel settings and statement jewelry pieces.
Unique Optical Effects in Cabochon Gems
The cabochon cut is essential for gemstones that display optical phenomena. Star sapphires, star rubies, cat's eye chrysoberyl and many moonstones require the cabochon shape to reveal these special visual effects.
Loose Cabochon Gemstones for Collectors
Loose cabochon gemstones are popular among collectors because they often showcase natural patterns, inclusions, and color zoning that would be hidden in faceted stones. Each gem has its own distinctive appearance.
Choosing the Right Cabochon Gemstone
When selecting a cabochon gemstone, consider color saturation, surface polish, symmetry and dome height. High quality cabochons have even curvature, excellent polish and vibrant natural color.
A cabochon gemstone is a stone that has been polished into a smooth, rounded shape without facets. It typically has a domed top and flat base.
Why are some gemstones cut as cabochons instead of faceted?
Some gemstones display special optical effects or natural patterns that are best shown with a cabochon cut. Others may not be transparent enough for faceting.
Which gemstones are commonly cut as cabochons?
Common cabochon gemstones include opal, turquoise, moonstone, labradorite, chrysoberyl, star sapphire, jade, and many opaque or translucent stones.
Are cabochon gemstones suitable for jewelry?
Yes, cabochon gemstones are widely used in jewelry. Their smooth surface works well with bezel settings and bold jewelry designs.
Can I buy loose cabochon gemstones at GemSelect?
Yes, GemSelect offers a large selection of loose cabochon gemstones in many sizes, colors and gemstone varieties suitable for jewelry making or collecting.
GemSelect Certified Store Reviews
GemSelect: Over 22 Years in the Gemstone Business! Thank you for trusting us with your purchase!
Overall Rating -> 9
I was looking for a small gift for a friend- the process is the same as every other time and was very simple, and she even got her gift early! On the downside, there's no way to easily keep track of multiple Shipping Addresses, so if I want to send a gift to Friend A and to Friend B, I have to overwrite everything and it's a fair bit clunky in that regard.
Posted By Jezzi in June, 2025
Source: Bizrate
Overall Rating -> 10
It was easy and to the point
Posted By Victorius in May, 2025
Source: Bizrate
Overall Rating -> 9
I did not realize these stones were of jewelry quality. They are really beautiful, just not what I was expecting which was more of a natural stone.
Posted By Jewelry Quality Stones in July, 2025
Source: Bizrate
Overall Rating -> 10
I have found GemSelect to have the best selections of quality stones at a reasonable price. I like the packaging and the report availability.
Posted By Sam in March, 2025
Source: Bizrate
Overall Rating -> 10
I love the products. I've bought them as gifts and people love my gifts
Posted By Love it! in February, 2026
Source: Bizrate
Overall Rating -> 10
I have shopped at Gemselect for nearly 20 years. I especially like that you see pictures of the exact gem you are purchasing. You are a trusted source.
