You might think making cabochons would be a dull, repetitive routine of grinding up rocks. In fact, every cabochon is different, each offering it's own challenges and rewards to the maker. Each begins with imagining the best possible end result. Like a photographer, the cutter takes 'found' objects and tries to frame them creatively for the greatest enhancement. There are disappointments, as a good pattern grinds away, the rock fails in various ways, or an error occurs. But there are often delightful surprises: a pattern may improve with grinding, a great feature may be revealed, and polishing may improve it beyond all expectation.

Some stones, such as jade, are difficult, and others, such as many jaspers, are relatively straightforward. Variance in hardness, fracture, and surface characteristics provide an endless learning opportunity. Some polish eagerly, others are stubborn.

If you make jewelry, you already know what to do with cabochons. If you don't, there are links at left to people with the expertise to help. Contact them for help in creating the piece of jewelry you are imagining. You can use the "Tell a Friend" feature in the catalog to consult with your favorite jewelry artist in advance.