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
Very good and simple exchange
Posted By Waylon in March, 2026
Source: Bizrate
Overall Rating -> 10
I needed a very specific color of tourmaline and Gem Select had it. I had to get the client to agree and then ordered the stone. It arrived better than pictured and we all were very happy.
Posted By Tim W in February, 2026
Source: Bizrate
Overall Rating -> 10
All good
Posted By DouscheGift in August, 2025
Source: Bizrate
Overall Rating -> 10
GemSelect is always my first choice for purchasing gemstones. The fact that the gems are always exactly as described and pictured on the website has earned my trust many times over. Even when I don't buy, I still love browsing all the beautiful stones. My new favorites are the bright green Tsavorites!
Posted By Lkcisneros in March, 2026
Source: Bizrate
Overall Rating -> 9
Always a good quality stone. Priced fairly and shipped promptly. Answers emails quickly
Posted By Ron T in November, 2025
Source: Bizrate
Overall Rating -> 10
Have made 2 purchases so far from GemSelect and they have been amazing! Anytime I requested additional info, videos or pictures of a particular item, the response was always timely and helpful. This is a great place to buy, if you are looking for loose stones. Highly recommend!
