gemstone surface crossword clue – All Crossword Answers

Welcome to Answercrossword.com! If you're looking for solutions to the clue "gemstone surface crossword clue," you've come to the right place. We provide accurate answers and detailed explanations to help you complete your puzzle with ease.

Solutions for "gemstone surface crossword clue" by Letter Count

5 Letters

FACET: A flat surface cut on a gemstone, designed to reflect light and enhance brilliance. This is the most common answer.

TABLE: The largest, flat top surface of a cut gemstone, often considered the most prominent facet.

More About "gemstone surface crossword clue"

The clue "gemstone surface crossword clue" almost invariably points to a term related to how a gemstone is cut and polished. The primary goal of cutting a gemstone is to maximize its beauty by enhancing its brilliance (the reflection of white light), fire (the dispersion of light into spectral colors), and scintillation (the sparkle as the gem moves).

Each flat surface cut onto a gemstone is known as a facet. These facets are meticulously positioned and angled to control how light enters and exits the stone. The larger, flat surface on the top of a gemstone is typically called the 'table,' which is crucial for light intake. The precision of these cuts significantly impacts the gem's overall appearance and value, making gem cutting a highly skilled art form.

Understanding these terms is not only helpful for crosswords but also for appreciating the craftsmanship behind beautiful jewelry. Jewelers and gemologists use a specific vocabulary to describe these features, and knowing them can give you an edge in future puzzles.

Tips For Your Next Puzzle

For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a 'facet' on a gemstone?

A facet is a flat surface meticulously cut and polished onto a gemstone, designed to enhance its brilliance and fire by reflecting and refracting light. The arrangement and angles of these facets are crucial for the gem's optical performance.

Why are gemstones cut with so many surfaces?

Gemstones are cut with multiple surfaces (facets) to maximize their sparkle, brilliance, and dispersion of light. The precise angles and arrangement of facets allow light to enter the gem, reflect internally, and exit through the top, creating the characteristic 'fire' and 'sparkle' that make gemstones so captivating.

Are there other terms for gemstone surfaces in crosswords?

Yes, besides 'facet' or 'table', you might encounter terms like 'crown' (the upper part of a cut gemstone, above the girdle), 'pavilion' (the lower part, below the girdle), or even 'girdle' (the narrow band separating the crown and pavilion), depending on the specific clue's context and required length.