Jewelry Lesson: Cabochon

By Marni Elyse Katz
February 14, 2011

Oscar De La Renta, Proenza Schouler, Marc by Marc Jacobs, Cynthia Rowley

Spring 2011 Runway Fashion: Oscar De La Renta (Photo by Jemal Countess/Getty Images); Proenza Schouler (Photo by Karl Prouse/Catwalking/Getty Images); Marc by Marc Jacobs (Photo by Slaven Vlasic/Getty Images); Cynthia Rowley (Photo by Karl Prouse/Catwalking/Getty Images)

You’ve seen the fashion trend, but may not know what it’s called. Or perhaps you’ve heard the term, but can’t quite place the look. Cabochons are smooth, polished gemstones with a rounded top and flat bottom. They had a major moment on the Spring 2011 runways—particularly in the form of oversize, statement jewelry and as eye-catching details on clothing. Proenza Schouler showed asymmetric necklaces bursting with multicolored cabochons, while Marc by Marc Jacobs sent chunky bangles studded with cabochon stones down the runway. At Oscar de la Renta, models wore strong cabochon earrings and necklaces in one or two colors, and at Cynthia Rowley, cabochon gemstones functioned as studs on tops and dresses.

On eBay, cabochon gemstones are ripe for the picking: There were over 47,000 online auction listings with the term in the past month. We combed through the current crop to find our favorites.

Vintage Kenneth Jay Lane Enamel Glass Cabochon Earrings

(buy it now price, $25)

This pair of vintage Kenneth Jay Lane earrings has an Art Deco vibe. They feature coral- and turquoise-colored glass cabochons in gold-platted settings on a ground of black and cream enamel.
Deco-style Silvertone with Brooch Pink Cabochon

(buy it now price, $14.99)

The stone on this sleek brooch is delicate and pearl-like.
Vintage Glass Stone Cabochon Bracelet & Earrings

(buy it now price, $69)

This vintage set with multicolored glass cabochons is reminiscent of ‘50s era ladylike dressing.
Vintage Gale Rothstein Goldtone Brooch & Cabochon Stones

(buy it now price, $24)

Gale Rothstein pieces were popular in the ‘80s, though this piece has a distinctly mid-century modern silhouette.
Large Hinged Goldtone Vintage Bracelet & Cabochon

(buy it now price, $39.99)

This chunky, goldtone, hinged cuff with multicolor cabochons is similar in style to the cuff bracelets worn on the Marc by Marc Jacobs Spring 2011 runway.
Vintage Coro Bracelet with Peachy Cabochon

(buy it now price, $49.99)

This pretty vintage lattice link bracelet is likely from the 1940s. Its coral cabochons have a very Palm Beach vibe.
Talbots Faux Turquoise Etruscan Blue Cabochon Ring

(buy it now price, $24.99)

This statement cocktail ring is set with faux cabochon stones in ocean hues.
Kenneth Jay Lane Lapis Cabochon Gold Plated Bracelet

(buy it now price, $129)

This faux lapis, gold-plated cabochon cuff is classic Kenneth Jay Lane.
Large Gold Turquoise Cabochon Pearl Flower Earrings

(buy it now price, $20.79)

These drop disc statement earrings combine a Southwestern color palette and a feminine floral design.
Vtg Zentall Mixed Faux Gemstone Cabochon Bird Brooch

(buy it now price, $29.99)

This plucky goldtone guy features mixed faux gemstone cabochons all over its body.