cabochon

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Word: Cabochon

Part of Speech: Noun

Definition: A cabochon is a type of gemstone that has been shaped and polished, but it does not have any flat surfaces or facets like many other gems. Instead, it has a smooth, rounded top. The word comes from the French word "cabochon," which means "small head."

Usage Instructions:

• You can use "cabochon" when talking about jewelry or gemstones.
• It is often used in contexts related to gemology (the study of gems) or jewelry making.

Example Sentence:

• "She chose a beautiful blue lapis lazuli cabochon for her necklace."

Advanced Usage:

In the context of gemology, cabochons are often preferred for certain types of stones that have unique patterns or colors, as the rounded shape showcases their beauty better than faceted cuts.

Word Variants:

• Cabochons (plural): More than one cabochon.
• Cabochon-cut (adjective): Describing a stone that has been cut in the cabochon style.

Different Meanings:

While "cabochon" specifically refers to a type of gemstone, in a broader sense, it can also refer to any object that has a smooth, rounded surface.

Synonyms:

• Rounded gem
• Polished stone

Related Terms:

• Facet: A flat surface on a gem.
• Gemstone: A precious or semi-precious stone used in jewelry.

Idioms and Phrasal Verbs:

There are no widely recognized idioms or phrasal verbs specifically associated with "cabochon." However, you might hear phrases that reference gemstones in general, such as "cut from the same cloth" (meaning similar in nature), but these do not directly relate to the word "cabochon."

Summary:

A cabochon is a smooth, rounded gemstone that is polished but not faceted. It is commonly used in jewelry, and its unique shape can enhance the appearance of certain stones.

Academic

Noun

1. a highly polished gem that is cut convexly but without facets