I personally love to use cabochons in my stained glass work. (you can view my projects at youtube@zodiart) Glass cabochons have so many other applications.
Cabochons, often referred to as “cabs,” are a type of gemstone or decorative element that has been shaped and polished into a smooth, rounded, and usually domed or convex shape. Glass cabochons are smooth, polished, and typically rounded or dome-shaped pieces of glass that are often used in jewelry making and various decorative crafts. The term “cabochon” refers to the shape and style of the glass piece, which is different from faceted gemstones.
Unlike faceted gemstones, which have multiple flat, angled surfaces to enhance their brilliance, cabochons have a single, smoothly curved surface on top. The bottom of a cabochon is typically flat, allowing it to be easily set into jewelry or other decorative pieces.
Glass cabochons are commonly used as a base or setting for various types of jewelry, including rings, earrings, pendants, and brooches. They can also be used to decorate accessories like belt buckles, hairpins, and even as embellishments in scrapbooking and other crafts. In jewelry making, they are often placed within a metal or wire bezel to create a finished piece. Glass cabochons come in various sizes, shapes, and colors, making them versatile for many design options.
These glass pieces can be transparent, translucent, or opaque, and they may be solid in color or include various patterns, textures, or inclusions. Some glass cabochons are designed to mimic the appearance of gemstones or other natural materials, while others have unique, artistic designs.
Overall, glass cabochons provide a cost-effective and attractive option for jewelry makers and craft enthusiasts, allowing them to incorporate colorful and eye-catching elements into their creations.
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Materials
Cabochons can be made from a wide range of materials, both natural and synthetic. These come in may shapes and sizes, from round, oval and square to heart, teardrop and other shapes. The choice of material depends on the desired appearance, purpose, and budget. Here are some common materials from which cabochons are crafted:
- Gemstones: Many cabochons are made from natural gemstones. Some popular gemstone cabochons include:
- Agate: Agate cabochons are known for their banded or layered patterns and come in various colors.
- Jasper: Jasper cabochons exhibit a wide array of earthy colors and unique patterns.
- Turquoise: Turquoise cabochons are highly prized for their vibrant blue and green hues.
- Opal: Opal cabochons can showcase the gem’s play of color, which is a dazzling, iridescent effect.
- Moonstone: Moonstone cabochons display a captivating adularescence, a soft, glowing sheen.
- Lapis Lazuli: Lapis lazuli cabochons are rich blue with golden pyrite inclusions.
- Labradorite: Labradorite cabochons are known for their iridescent flashes of color, often called “labradorescence.”
- Minerals: Some non-gemstone minerals can be shaped into cabochons for their unique patterns, colors, and visual appeal. These include malachite, rhodochrosite, and charoite, among others.
- Glass: Glass cabochons are commonly used in jewelry and craft projects. They come in various colors, textures, and patterns, and can mimic the appearance of gemstones.
- Synthetic Materials: Cabochons can also be made from synthetic materials like resin, plastic, and acrylic. These materials are often more affordable and come in a wide range of colors and styles.
- Wood: Wooden cabochons are crafted from different types of wood and can add a rustic or organic touch to jewelry and other items.
- Metal: Some cabochons are made from metal, such as copper, brass, or silver, and may have intricate designs or textures.
- Shell: Shell cabochons are created from seashell material and can have a unique iridescent quality.
- Composite Materials: Some cabochons are made from composite materials, which can combine various elements, such as stone chips, resin, and pigments, to create unique patterns and textures.
- Plastics: Some plastic materials can be shaped into cabochons for affordability and versatility.
Cabochons are commonly used in jewelry making, including in rings, pendants, earrings, and brooches. They are also utilized in decorative crafts, such as inlays, bezel settings, and other artistic applications. The smooth, polished surface of cabochons often highlights the natural beauty of the material, showcasing its colors, patterns, and unique features. Cabochons are popular for their simplicity and versatility, allowing designers and artisans to create a wide range of pieces with different styles and aesthetics.
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Uses
Cabochons are versatile components that are used in a variety of creative and decorative applications. Some common uses for cabochons include:
- Jewelry Making: Cabochons are frequently used in creating jewelry. They can be set in various types of jewelry, including rings, pendants, earrings, brooches, bracelets, and necklaces. Cabochons can be the central focus of a piece, surrounded by metal settings, or incorporated into intricate designs.
- Bead Embroidery: Cabochons can be used in bead embroidery, where seed beads and other small beads are stitched onto a fabric backing to create intricate and textured designs. The cabochon serves as the focal point of the design.
- Wire Wrapping: In wire wrapping, artisans use wires to create custom settings for cabochons. This technique allows for unique and artistic designs, and it’s popular for crafting handmade pendants.
- Bezel Settings: Cabochons are often set into metal bezels, which are designed to hold and protect the cabochon while allowing it to be displayed prominently. These bezel-set cabochons can be used in rings, pendants, and other jewelry pieces.
- Lapidary Art: Cabochons can be created as standalone pieces of art by lapidaries who cut and shape gemstone material into beautiful domed or shaped cabochons. These cabochons may be displayed as collector’s items or used in jewelry.
- Home Decor: Cabochons are sometimes used in home decor projects. They can be incorporated into items like belt buckles, photo frames, or decorative boxes, adding a unique and personalized touch to these items.
- Mixed Media Art: Artists and crafters often use cabochons in mixed media projects, such as collages, assemblages, and other forms of art. The smooth, polished surface of cabochons can contrast with other materials and textures for interesting effects.
- Costuming and Accessories: Cabochons can be used in costume design and accessories, such as making ornate hairpins, tiaras, and decorative elements for clothing.
- Scrapbooking: In the world of paper crafts, cabochons can be used to add dimension and visual interest to scrapbook layouts and handmade cards.
- Mosaic Art: In mosaic art, small cabochons made from glass or other materials are often used to create colorful patterns and designs on various surfaces, such as tabletops and wall art.
- Stained Glass: This is what I use cabochons for. I use them is clusters and accents in lamp shades, dream catchers and other works.
The use of cabochons allows for creativity and personalization in many different craft and art projects.
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Where to Purchase
You can find cabochons in various places, both in physical stores and online. Here are some common places where you can purchase cabochons:
- Local Jewelry Supply Stores: Many cities have jewelry supply stores or lapidary shops that offer a selection of cabochons. These stores may also have other jewelry-making supplies like settings, wires, and tools.
- Craft Stores: Major craft store chains often carry a variety of jewelry-making supplies, including cabochons. You can check stores like Michaels, Jo-Ann Fabric and Craft Stores, or Hobby Lobby.
- Big Box Stores: Many large general purpose stores and discount store sell craft supplies. So checkout your local Walmart and Dollar stores.
- Online Marketplaces: There are numerous online marketplaces where you can find cabochons, including:
- Etsy: Etsy is a popular platform for handmade and unique jewelry supplies. Many artisans and sellers offer a wide range of cabochons in different materials and styles.
- Amazon: You can find cabochons on Amazon from various sellers, including jewelry supply stores and individual sellers.I will list some cabochons that I have purchased on Amazon- I only include products that I have used myself. As an Amazon Affiliate Marketer, I earn a commission on qualifying purchases at no additional cost to you.
- eBay: eBay often has listings for cabochons, both new and vintage, from a variety of sellers.
- Temu: Temu sells a whole variety of items, often at a substantial discount. Just make sure they say they are made of the material you want.
- Wholesale Suppliers: If you need cabochons in larger quantities, you can look for wholesale suppliers that offer bulk deals. These suppliers often cater to businesses and bulk buyers.
- Gem and Mineral Shows: Attending gem and mineral shows, which are held in various locations, can be a fantastic way to find unique and high-quality cabochons. You can interact directly with dealers and see a wide range of gemstones.
- Online Specialty Retailers: There are specialized online retailers that focus exclusively on jewelry-making supplies, including cabochons. Some well-known options include Fire Mountain Gems, Rio Grande, and Beadaholique.
- Local Artisan Markets: If you have artisan markets or craft fairs in your area, you may find local jewelry makers selling their creations, including cabochon-based jewelry.
When purchasing cabochons, consider factors like the type of material, size, shape, and quality that you need for your project. Keep in mind that cabochons can be made from a wide variety of materials, including natural gemstones, glass, and synthetic materials, so choose the one that best suits your design size and budget.
Here are some cabochons that I have purchased from Amazon:
I have used many types and sizes of cabochons.
Please checkout the items above and you will notice that there are many other sizes available. Below are some of my works where I mixed clear and colored cabochons with other types and shapes of glass.
Creating with cabochons are only limited by your imagination- Now get some and have fun creating!
Zodiarts 
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