What term is defined as the arrangement of a gem's facets?

• A. Cutting Style
• B. Shape
• C. Fancy Cut
• D. Step Cut

Answer: (A)

Facet arrangement is described by cutting style—the overall pattern and layout of the facets on the gem, including how many facets, their angles, and how they mirror each other. This facet pattern largely determines how light is returned and how the gem’s sparkle appears. Shape, by contrast, refers to the stone’s external outline (round, square, etc.), not the internal facet layout. Fancy cut covers unusual or non-traditional designs, not specifically the general arrangement of facets. Step cut is a specific facet pattern within cutting styles (a particular arrangement), but the broad term for how facets are laid out is cutting style.