What is a briolette cut?
By Jared James · Last updated 21 May 2026
Definition
A briolette is a drop-shaped gemstone cut, typically pear or oval in outline, covered entirely in small triangular or diamond-shaped facets with no flat back or table. Because the stone is faceted all the way around, it cannot be set in a conventional way; instead it is usually wrapped in a fine wire cage or drilled at the top so it can be hung as a pendant bead and catch light from every angle as it moves. Briolettes were fashionable in antique Indian and European jewellery, and they are popular today in earrings and layering pendants.
Frequently asked questions
- How are briolette stones attached to jewellery?
- Because a briolette has no flat back, it cannot be set in a conventional bezel or prong. The most common solutions are a tiny drilled hole at the top through which wire or a pin is threaded, or a wire-wrapped cage that grips the stone and provides a loop for hanging.
- What gemstones are commonly cut as briolettes?
- Diamonds, aquamarine, tourmaline, amethyst, garnet and quartz varieties are all popular briolette stones. The cut suits transparent gems particularly well because the all-round faceting lets light enter and exit from every direction.
- What is the difference between a briolette and a pear cut?
- A pear cut has a flat table on top and a faceted pavilion below, much like a standard round brilliant but pointed at one end. A briolette is fully faceted with no flat face and no single viewing direction, designed to hang and sparkle from all angles.
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