Frosted Stars: Variations on Star-Cut Gemstones

Recommended Gems for Frosted Star-Cut Designs

I designed these variations years ago, then lost them in a computer crash. I've recreated them from memory and had them cut again (so I wouldn't have to rely on just my memory for how they performed). The designs were cut in a sky blue topaz and a fairly dark tourmaline.

The topaz came out beautifully. The gem had brilliance all the way across the top, and the star was exceptionally visible. However, the tourmaline was a disappointment. It was so dark after faceting that it took a lot of light to see the design.

I recommend using these designs (at least, as written) only on gems with light to medium saturation. If you have a large and dark gem that needs a shallow cut, apply the ""keep your distance" rule" and lower the angles as much as you need. Since you're cutting to show off the star, it'll be effective even if the gem windows.

Frosted Facet Cutting Advice

Take special care when cutting the frosted facets. All you're doing here is removing a small amount of material off a facet edge. It's really easy to over-cut these facets! I recommend that you do them on a stationary (not turning) 1,200 lap. It only takes a few gentle wipes to cut them to size.

"5 Star Gem," Five-Pointed Star-Cut Variation, 81 Facets, 64 Index

This design doesn't have perfect five-way symmetry, but can you tell?

The only trick to cutting this gem is the final row of frosted facets. These are so small that the best way to cut them is on a stationary 1,200 lap. Just give the motionless lap a short wipe, then inspect your facet. Be gentle. They take very little cutting.

Pavilion

Crown

"6 Star Gem," Six-Pointed Star-Cut Variation, 85 Facets, 96 Index

This six-sided star has frosted facets outlining the design. As with the "5 Star Gem," the only trick to cutting this gem is the final row of frosted facets. These are so small that the best way to cut them is on a stationary 1,200 lap. Just give the motionless lap a short wipe, then inspect your facet. Again, be gentle. They take very little cutting.

The crown will need a little adjusting during the pre-polish stage to keep the facets evenly proportioned, like in the diagram. A step-cut crown, with 35ºmains, would be as good or maybe a little better as far as brilliance. I wanted to suggest this as an alternative.

Pavilion

Crown