---
title: "Briolette: meaning in gemology"
description: "A briolette is a drop-shaped gem with facets over its whole surface. Its tapered top is often drilled so the stone can hang."
url: https://digitalgemology.com/learn/glossary/briolette
image: https://digitalgemology.com/img/og-digital-gemology.png?v=d224fb01
---

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[Glossary](https://digitalgemology.com/learn/glossary) · Cuts and shapes

# Briolette

Also called briolette cut

A briolette is a drop-shaped gem with facets over its whole surface. Its tapered top is often drilled so the stone can hang.

## In more detail

The style has a long history: Tavernier sold briolettes to Louis XIV in the 17th century. A record from 1612 describes a large pendant diamond faceted on all sides and pierced at the top. Early sources link the form to India. The name itself was not used much before the 19th century.

## Related terms

- [Pear cut](https://digitalgemology.com/learn/glossary/pear-cut): A pear cut is a brilliant with one rounded end and one point, halfway between an oval and a marquise.
- [Rose cut](https://digitalgemology.com/learn/glossary/rose-cut): A rose cut is a dome of triangular facets on a flat base: all crown and no pavilion.
- [Mogul cut](https://digitalgemology.com/learn/glossary/mogul-cut): A Mogul cut is a historic Indian cutting style that often followed the shape of the rough. It usually has a large flat base and an array of sloping or radial facets.
- [Facet](https://digitalgemology.com/learn/glossary/facet): A facet is one flat, polished face of a cut gemstone. Its angle and its direction around the stone decide where it sends light.

[All 369 terms](https://digitalgemology.com/learn/glossary)