Over the next few posts, I’d like to share some information about the differences in three very popular Zuni jewelry techniques which are often confused; petit point, snake eye, and needlepoint. These three stone setting techniques offer exquisite detail in a finished setting and are instantly recognizable.
The turquoise and other stones used in all three of these turquoise jewlery techniques are called cabochons. Cabachon is a jeweler’s word for a stone that is polished instead of faceted. A faceted stone, such as a diamond, is called a gemstone. Cabochons are small polished stones and are the basis for petit point, snake eye and needle point Zuni work.
Next time, a little history. Then, the fun stuff…..