Gem cuts and facets
Facets are carved surfaces on a cut gemstone. Their sole function is to reflect light so that it shows the gemstone to its best advantage. Even when they are hidden from view, they still reflect light and direct it towards the observer. Without facets, some of the light that enters the gemstone would pass right trough it and be lost, presenting a far less interesting stone. In the picture above are some of the most common gem cuts and facets.

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