The smooth, pebble-like finish of a cabochon cut gem may appear instinctively modern and futuristic, but its origins date back to antiquity. Indeed, cabochon cuts were often seen in jewellery worn in ancient civilisations, such as Greece, Egypt, and India. Cabochon cuts are mainly used for opaque or translucent gemstones to enhance their colour and clarity. However, it was the Romans who elevated cabochon cutting to an art form, using them for intricate carvings made on precious stones, known as Roman cameos and intaglios. (History buffs should Google the “Farnese Cup” and “Blacas Cameo”.)
Bulgari’s Cabochon collection, the Roman jeweller’s abstract interpretation of the namesake gem-cutting technique, comprises a ring and pendant necklace
In the 1950s, Roman jeweller Bulgari daringly introduced cabochon cuts into its high jewellery designs, at a time when faceted precious stones were all the rage. Now, more than 70 years later, the house continues to champion this aesthetic with the debut of the Bulgari Cabochon collection. The four-piece collection comprises two pendant necklaces and two rings, each piece wholly moulded from either rose gold or yellow gold. The smooth, convex silhouette of the rings and pendants mirrors cabochon gemstones, while two curved cuts on the side of each piece represent the brand’s abstract interpretation of a gem being cut.
The Bulgari Cabochon collection will be available at Bulgari boutiques in Ion Orchard, Takashimaya Shopping Centre, and The Shoppes at Marina Bay Sands from November 1. However, for those who want to beat the queue, the pieces are available for pre-sale purchase on the jeweller’s website.
