Cabochon
Cabachon refers to a central curved piece, normally a gemstone in a jewellery set but it can also be used to describe other feature materials such as timber set into a pattern. It comes from the French for head (caboche), referring to a way of cutting, forming a curved convex upper dome with flat underside, such as may be found with gemstones, and originates from around the 1600's. It was used more generically to describe an ornamental motive or feature found in furniture and flooring patterns from around the 1800's.
A Cabachon is made up of the upper edge, called the crown or dome, which is usually a polished or sanded finish, the flat base and a bevelled or square girdle, which runs around the circumference between the two. As well as its use in jewellery, the term may refer to an element of furniture patterns such as in marquetry or basket weave parquet patterns, to describe a central infill square with a dome shape.
[edit] Related articles on Designing Buildings
Featured articles
Check out some of the best features and news from Designing Buildings as well as key stories from around the web.
The heritage of nuclear and conventional power stations.
New measures to stop people being ripped off
Government to protect families from cowboy builders and aggressive bailiffs.
New Futurebuild showcase brings an innovation-first approach.
National Planning Policy Framework
Understanding the 2026 changes.
ECA's public affairs priorities
Member consultation opens to shape priorities for 2027 to 2030.
Dutyholder responsibilities from 1 July 2026.
Where performance meets practice
The Building Envelope Stage at UKCW Birmingham.
CIAT publishes briefing on planning reforms.
Leaders in Learning for Practice Network
Call for conservation leaders in learning to register interest in new network.
The importance of early engagement
Construction lessons from the Trillium HealthWorks Experience Centre.
Mayors are to be given planning call in powers
Mayors across England will be able to make the most important planning decisions.
The Master Builder: William Butterfield and his times. Book review.