Culet Facets
CULET FACET
. There is no question that this facet destroys the ability of a small area near the tip to properly reflect light, yet, through long-standing tradition, this culet is still placed on brilliant
cut gems.
Several reasons have been advanced as to why it is there, among them, that it prevents splitting of the gem. But none of the reasons seem valid. However, the culet does serve as a check of the lapidary’s skill be¬cause its outline forms a minute, more or less regular octagon. If the sides of the octagon are all of the same length and the angles between-,, them are equal, it indicates that the large pavilion facets above are also very evenly and accurately cut. On the other hand, if the octagon is irregular or misshapen, it indicates poor cutting.