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Difference between revisions of "Guides/River Plains Gem School"

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__TOC__
 
__TOC__
* Located at [http://goo.gl/LbJNaL 1558,2900] in RP
 
* The majority of this guide is taken from T6 and earlier, with thanks to the original authors. Updates for T7 will progressively be made!
 
  
 +
== About ==
 +
 +
Tired of wasting gems practicing cuts you're not very good at yet?  At the River Planes Gem School you can come practice your gem cutting skills on any of our many Scholar Tables designed to mimic actual gem cuts.  The School is located at [http://goo.gl/LbJNaL 1558,2900] in RP, just north of the chariot stop along the stream.  It's the big CP that says GEM across the top.  Come visit and never waste another gem again!  We look forward to seeing you there.
  
 
== Overview ==
 
== Overview ==
Line 33: Line 34:
  
 
=== Cutting the Gem ===
 
=== Cutting the Gem ===
 +
 +
Each gem is roughly a cube comprised of 7x7x7 smaller cubes (a bit like a Rubric's cube, except bigger). Some of the smaller cubes are empty, and they are 'flaws'.  The combinations of flaws and solid gems and the three cutting blades creates an infinity of possible designs. To cut a gem to create a predetermined shape, as listed in the gem catalogue is a definitely a special task requiring a good sense of spatial relationships. The gem catalog will display a sample gem atop the pole on the table, as a reference.
  
 
There are three sanding disks. Each disc works in a different plane, and will remove 1 layer of solid gem each time you use it.  
 
There are three sanding disks. Each disc works in a different plane, and will remove 1 layer of solid gem each time you use it.  
Line 42: Line 45:
 
Disc 3 works on the corner to corner diagonal. (45 degrees to Disk 2) Using Disk 3 also creates diamond shapes, but in a different orientation.
 
Disc 3 works on the corner to corner diagonal. (45 degrees to Disk 2) Using Disk 3 also creates diamond shapes, but in a different orientation.
  
All you need to cut a gem is one or a combination of these disks to create a predetermined shape, as listed in the gem catalogue. The gem catalog will display a sample gem atop the pole on the table, as a reference.
+
Practice Session 2
 +
* Use Disk 1 to find and cut a solid square of gem, in any size.
 +
* Use Disk 2 to cut a solid diamond of gem, in any size.
 +
* Use Disk 2 to cut a solid bar 3 segments tall and 1 segment deep and wide. The use Disk 3 to create a pyramid on each end.
 +
  Compare to the gem catalogue for "Thistle", and adjust as needed. You have made your first cut gem!
  
 
=== Making the most of Flaws ===
 
=== Making the most of Flaws ===
All cuttable gems have flaws, in an endless array of random configurations.  Most types of cut gem can only be formed by taking advantage of flaws in the gem. For example, the "eyelet" cut requires a flaw two layers deep, surrounded by unflawed gem. The "full eye" cut is harder, requiring a three-deep flaw. Before starting to cut any gem, examine it carefully to see what can be made from it. It is MUCH more economical to look first to see what is in the gem and take advantage of what you have than waste precious cuttable gems by going for only what you need. The rarest sets of flaws might just come up, giving you a chance at a Dragyn's Eye or Full Aidenn Mask, and those chances are not to be missed!
+
Sculptors sometimes say that they can see the statue hidden within a block of stone, and cut away all the bits that aren't part of the statue. This is sort of what happens with gem cutting. The desired cut gem is hidden within the rough stone. Sand away all the bits that are not what you want.
 +
 
 +
All cuttable gems have flaws, in an endless array of random configurations.  Most types of cut gem can only be formed by taking advantage of flaws in the gem. For example, the "Eyelet" cut requires a flaw two layers deep, surrounded by unflawed gem. The "Full Eye" cut is harder, requiring a three-deep flaw and corresponding surrounding solid gem.  
  
Sculptors sometimes say that they see the statue hidden within a block of stone, and cut away all that is not a part of it. This is exactly how gems are made: The desired cut gem is hidden within the rough stone. Sand away all the bits that are not what you want.
+
Before starting to cut any gem, examine it carefully to see what can be made from it. It is MUCH more economical to look first to see what is in the gem and take advantage of what you have than waste precious cuttable gems by going for only what you need. The rarest sets of flaws might just come up, giving you a chance at a Dragyn's Eye or Full Aidenn Mask, and those chances are not to be missed!
  
When you have produced an exact match for a cut gem, rotate the gem so it matches the catalogue example and complete the cut by selecting the type of gem you are making from the "finished cutting" menu of the cutting table. If your gem is an exact match for the sample in the catalogue, it will be removed from the table.
+
When you have produced an exact match for a cut gem, rotate the gem so it matches the catalogue example and complete the cut by selecting the type of gem you are making from the "finished cutting" menu of the cutting table. If your gem is an exact match for the sample in the catalogue, it will be removed from the table to your inventory.
  
Some gem cuts require flaws that are present in only a small fraction of rough gems. Zomboe, an expert gem cutter, has provided this list of rare cuts: Tiki Mask is insanely rare. Others, in approximate order of decreasing rarity, are King's Tomb, Unity, Bridge, Lotus, Ring, Dragyn's Eye, Full Aidenn Mask, Ra's Lantern. If you find a rough gem with the right flaws that can be cut into one of these, it's usually best to do it even if you're currently looking for something else - you'll be glad of it later.
+
Some gem cuts require flaws that are present in only a small fraction of rough gems. Zomboe, an expert gem cutter, has provided an approximate estimate of rarity: Tiki Mask is insanely rare. Others, in approximate order of decreasing rarity, are King's Tomb, Unity, Bridge, Lotus, Ring, Dragyn's Eye, Full Aidenn Mask, Ra's Lantern. If you find a rough gem with the right flaws/ solid characteristics that can be cut into one of these, it's usually best to do it even if you're currently looking for something else - you'll be glad of it later.
  
 
== Cut Gem Catalogue ==
 
== Cut Gem Catalogue ==
Line 62: Line 71:
 
|
 
|
 
|'''Carats'''
 
|'''Carats'''
 +
|'''Available'''
 
|'''Instructions'''
 
|'''Instructions'''
 
|'''Rarity'''
 
|'''Rarity'''
Line 71: Line 81:
 
|[[Image:Aidensmask.gif|alt={Aidenn Mask (15 carat)}]]
 
|[[Image:Aidensmask.gif|alt={Aidenn Mask (15 carat)}]]
 
|15
 
|15
 +
|Yes
 
|Two flaws next to each other with solid gem on the outside edge. To cut, use Disk 1 to cut away excess from the front and back of the flaws, then use Disk 2 to cut the angled edges.
 
|Two flaws next to each other with solid gem on the outside edge. To cut, use Disk 1 to cut away excess from the front and back of the flaws, then use Disk 2 to cut the angled edges.
 
|Rare
 
|Rare
Line 81: Line 92:
 
|[[Image:Amanti.gif|alt={Amanti (11 carat)}]]
 
|[[Image:Amanti.gif|alt={Amanti (11 carat)}]]
 
|11
 
|11
|None
+
|Yes
|All
+
|Needs 2x2x2 piece of solid gem. Easy way to cut is to make a column of gem 2x2 using Disk 1. The use Disk 2, rotating on z between each cut to form one facetted side, flip over and continue cutting with Disk 2 until complete.
 +
|Common. All
 
|1 Cut '''Garnet''': Amanti for [[Test of the Windsong]]
 
|1 Cut '''Garnet''': Amanti for [[Test of the Windsong]]
 
1 Cut '''Turquoise''': Amanti for [[Test of the Windsong]]
 
1 Cut '''Turquoise''': Amanti for [[Test of the Windsong]]
Line 93: Line 105:
 
|[[Image:Amunet.gif|alt={Amunet}]]
 
|[[Image:Amunet.gif|alt={Amunet}]]
 
|46
 
|46
|a sphere of unflawed gem radius 5?
+
|Yes
 +
|Rare - needs a gem that is mostly solid. Face Disk 1 and use Disk 2 to cut a oblong 2 x 2, making sure that the centre of the long edges are not flawed. A few flaws on either end won't matter too much as you will cut them off in the next phase. Rotate the gem and camera to face Disk 2 and cut twice on all sides to create the point. Flip around to do the other side, checking to make sure that all goes well on the centre 'tab'.
 
|
 
|
 
|
 
|
Line 103: Line 116:
 
|[[Image:Appolonia.gif|alt={Appolonia (21 carat)}]]
 
|[[Image:Appolonia.gif|alt={Appolonia (21 carat)}]]
 
|21
 
|21
|One flaw with a large area of unflawed gem on one side of it
+
|Yes
 +
|Using Disk 1, look for a 4 x 4 expanse of solid gem with a single flaw on one edge. Cut to a sheet 1 layer deep, then use Disk 2 to shape the angles around the flaw and to create the pointed bottom. If necessary, use Disk 1 to shape the sides.
 
|All
 
|All
 
|1 Cut '''(Any Gem)''': Appolonia for [[Test of the Windsong]]
 
|1 Cut '''(Any Gem)''': Appolonia for [[Test of the Windsong]]
Line 113: Line 127:
 
|[[Image:Bastet.gif|alt={Bastet (11 carat)}]]
 
|[[Image:Bastet.gif|alt={Bastet (11 carat)}]]
 
|11
 
|11
|A two-deep vertex flaw
+
|Yes
 +
|Find a 2 x 1 flaw with a solid are beneath the 'V' of the flaw. Use Disk 1 to cut away to a single layer, then flip and rotate to cut away the sides to form the 'ears' and Disk 2 to make the pointy 'chin'. 
 
|All
 
|All
 
|
 
|
Line 123: Line 138:
 
|[[Image:Bridge.gif|alt={Bridge (14 carat)}]]
 
|[[Image:Bridge.gif|alt={Bridge (14 carat)}]]
 
|14
 
|14
|A pair of two-deep vertex flaws directly opposite each other
+
|Yes
 +
| Rare because of the flaws but easy to cut when they are there! A pair of two-deep vertex flaws directly opposite each other separated with 1 x 1 solid gem. Cut to a single layer using Disk 1 and neaten the edges.
 
|Ultra-rare
 
|Ultra-rare
 
|
 
|
Line 133: Line 149:
 
|[[Image:Cat's_eye.gif|alt={Cat's Eye (28 carat)}]]
 
|[[Image:Cat's_eye.gif|alt={Cat's Eye (28 carat)}]]
 
|28
 
|28
|A two-deep vertex flaw surrounded by a double ring of unflawed gem
+
|Yes
 +
|Find a two-deep flaw surrounded with solid gem. Trim off excess with Disk 1, then Disk 2 to do the corners. Flip so that the flaw is flat to the table and use Disk 1 to cut the faceted front, rotating on Z between each cut.  Reorient to finish.
 
|Rare
 
|Rare
 
|
 
|
Line 143: Line 160:
 
|[[Image:Choronzon.gif|alt={Choronzon (43 carat)}]]
 
|[[Image:Choronzon.gif|alt={Choronzon (43 carat)}]]
 
|43
 
|43
|A 5x5x3 block of unflawed gem
+
|Yes
 +
|Needs a 2 deep x 3 wide x 3 high solid gem. Use Disk 1 to remove shallow flaws. With a flat side facing down use Disk 2 to cut opposing sides, flip and repeat. Stand the gem upright, and use Disk 3 for the corners. Might need Disk 1 to finish off.
 
|Common
 
|Common
 
|
 
|
Line 153: Line 171:
 
|[[Image:Corner_heart.gif|alt={Corner Heart (4 carat)}]]
 
|[[Image:Corner_heart.gif|alt={Corner Heart (4 carat)}]]
 
|4
 
|4
|Very small unflawed area
+
|Yes
 +
|Use Disk 3 throughout. Cut to a nice line on top. Rotate on Z twice and cut to the line. Then flip on Y axis twice and cut to one side of the line. Flip on Z twice  and keep cutting. The last cut reveals the little dimples and it's done!
 
|All
 
|All
 
|
 
|
Line 163: Line 182:
 
|[[Image:Crater.gif|alt={Crater}]]
 
|[[Image:Crater.gif|alt={Crater}]]
 
|9
 
|9
|A pair of Three-deep flaws intersecting.
+
|Yes
 +
|A pair of Three-deep flaws intersecting. Cut away excess using Disk 1, then turn the gem over and use Disk 3 to form a point. Finally, use Disk 1 to cut off the point and rotate gem to match the example.
 
|very rare
 
|very rare
 
|
 
|
Line 173: Line 193:
 
|[[Image:Dalessi.gif|alt={Dalessi (25 carat)}]]
 
|[[Image:Dalessi.gif|alt={Dalessi (25 carat)}]]
 
|25
 
|25
|None
+
|Yes
 +
|Start with a 2x2x2 solid square. Doesn't matter if some corners are missing. Rotate so any missing corners are at the top and facing Disk 3. Use Disk 3 to cut one side to the base. Rotate (Z twice) and repeat. Then go one more. Done!
 
|All
 
|All
 
|
 
|
Line 183: Line 204:
 
|[[Image:Dragyn's_eye.gif|alt={Dragyn's Eye (17 carat)}]]
 
|[[Image:Dragyn's_eye.gif|alt={Dragyn's Eye (17 carat)}]]
 
|17
 
|17
|2 aligned flaws on adjacent faces
+
|Yes
 +
|The trick is to find 2 intersecting flaws with solid gem around them. Use Disk 1 to reveal the flaws on an edge and cut off the base. With the corner eyes facing away,  use Disk 3 to shave away until you have the final cut.
 
|Rare
 
|Rare
 
|
 
|
Line 193: Line 215:
 
|[[Image:Eyelet.gif|alt={Eyelet (16 carat)}]]
 
|[[Image:Eyelet.gif|alt={Eyelet (16 carat)}]]
 
|16
 
|16
|A two-deep vertex flaw
+
|Yes
|Common
+
|A single flaw that is one layer deep. Find the flaw, then rotate on z axis twice and cut using Disk 1 to expose the other side. Then rotate on y axis and use Disk 1 to cut to a square around the diamond shaped flaw.
 +
|Common.
 
|
 
|
 
|-
 
|-
Line 203: Line 226:
 
|[[Image:Full_aidenn_mask.gif|alt={Full Aiden Mask (21 carat)}]]
 
|[[Image:Full_aidenn_mask.gif|alt={Full Aiden Mask (21 carat)}]]
 
|21
 
|21
|Parallel two-deep vertex flaws with a one-deep flaw between and below them
+
|Yes
 +
|Look for side by side two deep flaws with a facet missing between them. Use Disk 1 to cut all te way around. Orient the gem with the 'nose' flaw to the top and use Disk 2 on each side to finalise the cut.
 
|Ultra rare
 
|Ultra rare
 
|
 
|
Line 213: Line 237:
 
|[[Image:Full_eye.gif|alt={Full Eye (24 carat)}]]
 
|[[Image:Full_eye.gif|alt={Full Eye (24 carat)}]]
 
|24
 
|24
|A three-deep vertex flaw
+
|Yes
 +
|Look for a two deep single flaw, similar to an eyelet but twice as deep. Use Disk 1 throughout. Rotate the gem so the flaw is at the back and cut until the flaw is revealed. Then cut a square around the flaw, turning as needed.
 
|Rare
 
|Rare
 
|
 
|
Line 223: Line 248:
 
|[[Image:Hexas_plate.gif|alt={Hexas Plate (9 carat)}]]
 
|[[Image:Hexas_plate.gif|alt={Hexas Plate (9 carat)}]]
 
|9
 
|9
|One-deep vertex flaw
+
|Yes
 +
|Start using Disk 3 to find the 6-sided flaw surrounded with solid gem. Then use a combination of disks to trim around the edges, rotating as needed. Disk 3 will shave the back when the edges are done. A test of skill in spatial relations!
 
|All
 
|All
 
|
 
|
Line 233: Line 259:
 
|[[Image:Hile's_chevrons.gif|alt={Hile's Chevrons (25 carat)}]]
 
|[[Image:Hile's_chevrons.gif|alt={Hile's Chevrons (25 carat)}]]
 
|25
 
|25
|Unflawed plane
+
|Yes
 +
|Rotate to find a face with mostly 1 deep flaws and use Disk 1 to remove. With the flat face to the front use Disk 3 to cut a 2x3 rectangle, twirling on x axis. When you rotate back around (on z axis), the distinctive facets are revealed.
 
|All
 
|All
 
|
 
|
Line 243: Line 270:
 
|[[Image:Khufu's_ship.gif|alt={Khufu's Ship (22 carat)}]]
 
|[[Image:Khufu's_ship.gif|alt={Khufu's Ship (22 carat)}]]
 
|22
 
|22
|Double-width one-deep vertex flaw
+
|Yes
 +
|Find a shallow 2x1 flaw. Use Disk 1 to cut to the edges and Disk 3 to cut points on both ends. With the flaw at the bottom use Disk 2 to make the keel and Disk 1 to make the blunt end. Rotate the blunt end to face Disk 2 an cut to finalise. Turn it over to see the boat!
 
|Uncommon
 
|Uncommon
 
|
 
|
Line 253: Line 281:
 
|[[Image:King's_tomb.gif|alt={King's Tomb (43 carat)}]]
 
|[[Image:King's_tomb.gif|alt={King's Tomb (43 carat)}]]
 
|43
 
|43
|Single flaw surrounded by double ring of unflawed gem
+
|Yes
 +
|One of the super rare gems to find. Needs single flaw in the centre of a side with solid gem 2 deep all around. Use Disk 1 to reveal the central dimple with solid gem all around it. Use Disk 3 to create the pyramid on the reverse, just like a Queens Tomb, but bigger.
 
|Ultra rare
 
|Ultra rare
 
|
 
|
Line 263: Line 292:
 
|[[Image:Lens.gif|alt={Lens (12 carat)}]]
 
|[[Image:Lens.gif|alt={Lens (12 carat)}]]
 
|12
 
|12
|None
+
|Yes
|All
+
|Use Disk 1 to cut  a single layer of gem, looking for a 2 x 2 area of solid gem. Use Disk 2 to cut one edge of the diamond, then rotate progressively on x axis to shape the other 3 sides.
 +
|Common. All
 
|
 
|
 
|- style="background-color:#fff8e7;"
 
|- style="background-color:#fff8e7;"
Line 273: Line 303:
 
|[[Image:Looking_glass.gif|alt={Looking Glass (24 carat)}]]
 
|[[Image:Looking_glass.gif|alt={Looking Glass (24 carat)}]]
 
|24
 
|24
|A 6x4x1 area of unflawed gem
+
|Yes
 +
|Use Disk 1 to reveal a large area of unflawed gem. Flip on z twice and cut to a single thickness of gem. Continue with Disk 1 to cut to the final dimensions.
 
|Common
 
|Common
 
|
 
|
Line 283: Line 314:
 
|[[Image:Lotus.gif|alt={Lotus (19 carat)}]]
 
|[[Image:Lotus.gif|alt={Lotus (19 carat)}]]
 
|19
 
|19
|Specific pattern
+
|Yes
|Ultra rare
+
|Needs tow intersecting 2x1x1 flaws with solid on one side. Use Disk 1 to reveal the facetted centre and to cut around all 4 sides. Flip the column over and use Disk 3 to shape the four sides of the pointed side. Flip back over when complete.
 +
|Ultra rare.
 
|
 
|
 
|- style="background-color:#fff8e7;"
 
|- style="background-color:#fff8e7;"
Line 293: Line 325:
 
|[[Image:Moorish_arch.gif|alt={Moorish Arch}]]
 
|[[Image:Moorish_arch.gif|alt={Moorish Arch}]]
 
|15
 
|15
 +
|Yes
 +
|Not as difficult as it looks. Find a two deep flaw near the centre of the gem, with solid on two sides (similar to a Full Eye). With the flaw facing Disk 2, use Disk 2 to slice to the edge of the flaw, then one more. Flip over and repeat. This creates the panel oriented on the diagonal. Rotate so the arch is upright and use disk 2 and then disk 3 to shape the top features of the arch to finish.
 
|
 
|
 
|
 
|
Line 303: Line 337:
 
|[[Image:Osiris_eye.gif|alt={Osiris Eye}]]
 
|[[Image:Osiris_eye.gif|alt={Osiris Eye}]]
 
|10
 
|10
 +
|Yes
 
|Description: A long 3 width flaw with a 2-deep flaw in the middle. To cut, use Disk 1 to remove the excess gem from both long sides. Flip so the 'eye' is at the bottom and pointing towards the front of the table. Use Disk 2 to create a peak and reveal the central eye. Turn back around and position to use Disk 3 to cut the points at the top and bottom.
 
|Description: A long 3 width flaw with a 2-deep flaw in the middle. To cut, use Disk 1 to remove the excess gem from both long sides. Flip so the 'eye' is at the bottom and pointing towards the front of the table. Use Disk 2 to create a peak and reveal the central eye. Turn back around and position to use Disk 3 to cut the points at the top and bottom.
 
|
 
|
Line 313: Line 348:
 
|[[Image:Prism.gif|alt={Prism}]]
 
|[[Image:Prism.gif|alt={Prism}]]
 
|
 
|
|
+
|Yes
|
+
|Cut a 2 x 2 x 2 square of solid gem using Disk 1. Then switch to Disk 2 and cut to the base of the gem. Reorient to match the example.
 +
|Common
 
|
 
|
 
|-
 
|-
Line 323: Line 359:
 
|[[Image:Queen's_tomb.gif|alt={Queen's Tomb (18 carat)}]]
 
|[[Image:Queen's_tomb.gif|alt={Queen's Tomb (18 carat)}]]
 
|18
 
|18
 +
|Yes
 
|Single flaw surrounded by a ring of unflawed gem
 
|Single flaw surrounded by a ring of unflawed gem
 
|Common
 
|Common
Line 333: Line 370:
 
|[[Image:Ra's_lantern.gif|alt={Ra's Lantern (27 carat)}]]
 
|[[Image:Ra's_lantern.gif|alt={Ra's Lantern (27 carat)}]]
 
|27
 
|27
 +
|Yes
 
|Double-width vertex flaw, with one flaw two-deep, with unflawed gem on remaining three sides of prism
 
|Double-width vertex flaw, with one flaw two-deep, with unflawed gem on remaining three sides of prism
 
|Ultra rare
 
|Ultra rare
Line 343: Line 381:
 
|[[Image:Reflection.gif|alt={Reflection (14 carat)}]]
 
|[[Image:Reflection.gif|alt={Reflection (14 carat)}]]
 
|14
 
|14
 +
|Yes
 
|Two two-deep vertex flaws next to each other, points touching
 
|Two two-deep vertex flaws next to each other, points touching
 
|Rare
 
|Rare
Line 353: Line 392:
 
|[[Image:Refreactor.gif|alt={Refractor}]]
 
|[[Image:Refreactor.gif|alt={Refractor}]]
 
|
 
|
|
+
|Yes
 +
|Using Disk 3 reveal unflawed solid gem. Rotate once on Z and cut to a nice clean edge. Flip and rotate so the edge is opposite Disk 2 in the same alignment and cut  the prism shape. Use disk 1 to trim the ends to the desired length.
 
|
 
|
 
|
 
|
Line 363: Line 403:
 
|[[Image:Ring.gif|alt={Ring (13 carat)}]]
 
|[[Image:Ring.gif|alt={Ring (13 carat)}]]
 
|13
 
|13
|Two deep intersecting flaws forming a T shape surrounded by unflawed gem
+
|Yes
 +
|Look for a 'T' shaped flaw. With Disk 1 carefully cut to shape, keeping solid edges around the stem of the 'T'. Use Disk 2 around the 'stem' flaw to make the top of the ring. Flip over and use Disk 3 to cut to the base on all four sides.
 
|Ultra rare
 
|Ultra rare
 
|
 
|
Line 373: Line 414:
 
|[[Image:Shen_of_horus.gif|alt={Shen of Horus}]]
 
|[[Image:Shen_of_horus.gif|alt={Shen of Horus}]]
 
|28
 
|28
 +
|No
 
|two adjacent 3-deep flaws, surrounded by unflawed gem
 
|two adjacent 3-deep flaws, surrounded by unflawed gem
 
|crazy
 
|crazy
Line 383: Line 425:
 
|[[Image:Solarkin.gif|alt={Solarkin}]]
 
|[[Image:Solarkin.gif|alt={Solarkin}]]
 
|24
 
|24
|
+
|No
 +
|Find the flaw combination and the battle is almost over.  Carve away all sides with Disk 3 to create the outline. With the key flaws down and the top facing Disk 2 cut to form the base. Turn on Z twice and shape the top. 
 
|
 
|
 
|
 
|
Line 393: Line 436:
 
|[[Image:Sprocket.gif|alt={Sprocket (14 carat)}]]
 
|[[Image:Sprocket.gif|alt={Sprocket (14 carat)}]]
 
|14
 
|14
|Relatively unflawed diagonal plane
+
|Yes
 +
|Needs a relatively unflawed diagonal plane. Position a large corner triangle opposite Disk 3, and cut to 3 deep. Cut a three sided shape using Disk 2, twirling on -X once and -Z three times to reposition. Flip over to work the same way on the other side, cutting to the edge of the first facet on the first face. Not as hard as it looks.
 
|All
 
|All
 
|
 
|
Line 403: Line 447:
 
|[[Image:Suspension.gif|alt={Suspension}]]
 
|[[Image:Suspension.gif|alt={Suspension}]]
 
|9
 
|9
|2-deep vertex flaw
+
|Yes
 +
|Very like a Corner Heart to cut, except bigger and with the gap on the bottom. Find an 'eyelet' flaw (not on an edge) with solid on opposing sides. Turn the gem so the flaw is facing Disk 3 and cut to the centre of the flaw. Rotate on x twice and repeat. This will form the gap at the bottom of the cut between the two pointy legs. Rotate on Y to sit the gem on its legs and rotate on Z and use Disk 3 to shave away to form the distinctive shape. The 'dimples' will appear on the final cut.
 
|
 
|
 
|
 
|
Line 413: Line 458:
 
|[[Image:Symmetry.gif|alt={Symmetry (19 carat)}]]
 
|[[Image:Symmetry.gif|alt={Symmetry (19 carat)}]]
 
|19
 
|19
|A 3x3x3 area of unflawed gem
+
|Yes
 +
|Cut a 2x2x2 square of solid gem using Disk 1. Then use Disk 3 to shave off each corner.
 
|All
 
|All
 
|
 
|
Line 423: Line 469:
 
|[[Image:The_fox.gif]]
 
|[[Image:The_fox.gif]]
 
|?
 
|?
 +
|No
 
|
 
|
 
|
 
|
Line 433: Line 480:
 
|[[Image:The_shark.gif]]
 
|[[Image:The_shark.gif]]
 
|8
 
|8
|A three-deep vertex flaw
+
|Yes
 +
|Find and cut a Full Eye, then use Disk 3 to take away opposing corners.
 
|Rare
 
|Rare
 
|
 
|
Line 443: Line 491:
 
|[[Image:Thistle.gif|alt={Thistle (12 carat)}]]
 
|[[Image:Thistle.gif|alt={Thistle (12 carat)}]]
 
|12
 
|12
|None
+
|Yes
 +
|One way to cut this is to use Disk 2 to make a long diamond shaped oblong. Turn it upright (y axis) and use Disk 3 to form one pointy end, rotating on z as you go. Then flip over and repeat on the other side until you complete the cut.
 
|All
 
|All
 
|
 
|
Line 453: Line 502:
 
|[[Image:Thoth's_knot.gif|alt={Thoth's Knot (18 carat)}]]
 
|[[Image:Thoth's_knot.gif|alt={Thoth's Knot (18 carat)}]]
 
|18
 
|18
 +
|No
 
|Two lines of three flaws, crossing adjacent to one another, with solid gem beside each and 1 cell of gem above and below
 
|Two lines of three flaws, crossing adjacent to one another, with solid gem beside each and 1 cell of gem above and below
 
|Ultra rare
 
|Ultra rare
Line 463: Line 513:
 
|[[Image:Tiki_mask.gif|alt={Tiki Mask (35 carat)}]]
 
|[[Image:Tiki_mask.gif|alt={Tiki Mask (35 carat)}]]
 
|35
 
|35
 +
|No
 
|Double-width one-deep vertex flaw
 
|Double-width one-deep vertex flaw
 
|Ultra rare
 
|Ultra rare
Line 473: Line 524:
 
|[[Image:Tombstone.gif|alt={Tombstone}]]
 
|[[Image:Tombstone.gif|alt={Tombstone}]]
 
|26
 
|26
 +
|No
 
|
 
|
 
|
 
|
Line 483: Line 535:
 
|[[Image:Triclops.gif|alt={Triclops}]]
 
|[[Image:Triclops.gif|alt={Triclops}]]
 
|14
 
|14
|
+
|Yes
|
+
|Easy to cut once you spot the three single flaws in a row. Use Disk 1 to cut to a single layer, the remove the excess to the top and bottom of the row. Finally, use Disk 2 to neaten the edges.
 +
|Rare
 
|
 
|
 
|-
 
|-
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|[[Image:Unity.gif|alt={Unity (36 carat)}]]
 
|[[Image:Unity.gif|alt={Unity (36 carat)}]]
 
|36
 
|36
 +
|Yes
 
|Two-deep vertex flaw surrounded by an area of unflawed gem.  The trick is to find the configuration of flaw and unflawed gem. To cut, look for a Full Eye surrounded by solid gem, and use Cutting Disk 2 to create the distinctive frame around the central flaw.
 
|Two-deep vertex flaw surrounded by an area of unflawed gem.  The trick is to find the configuration of flaw and unflawed gem. To cut, look for a Full Eye surrounded by solid gem, and use Cutting Disk 2 to create the distinctive frame around the central flaw.
 
|Ultra rare
 
|Ultra rare

Latest revision as of 10:39, 1 October 2016

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About

Tired of wasting gems practicing cuts you're not very good at yet? At the River Planes Gem School you can come practice your gem cutting skills on any of our many Scholar Tables designed to mimic actual gem cuts. The School is located at 1558,2900 in RP, just north of the chariot stop along the stream. It's the big CP that says GEM across the top. Come visit and never waste another gem again! We look forward to seeing you there.

Overview

Sections of Cuttable Gems are sliced away on a Gem Cutting Table until the result matches a target design in the Gem Catalogue. At that point, the cut gem may be removed into your inventory.

Nonstandard shapes may be saved in a Specimen Case (available with some multi-month pre-paid packages). Each case holds one cut gem. The contents of the specimen case may later be loaded onto a table for additional cutting.

In the absence of a specimen case, cut gems that don't match a Gem Catalogue entry must be discarded.

Positioning the Camera

Some players prefer to stand inside the table while cutting. However a good stance to begin with is to the right of Sanding Disk 1, in F6 view. Some players prefer to stand by the pole, with the camera rotated so it is on the rear right of the table. Others prefer the pole on the rear left, so the camera is looking at the face of the gem that will be sliced off by Disc 1. For some cuts you may want to change the camera angle to check on what is going on!

Using the Axis Controls

Getting used to the interface will make your gem cutting life easier. It does come with practice. Start by loading a cuttable gem. The option will come up when you click on the gem cutting table with a cuttable gem in your inventory. Pin the menu for reference.

Practice Session 1: 
* ROTATE the gem on the Z coordinate first. The + and - signs will switch the rotation direction. Four rotations brings you back to the beginning. 
* Now try the Y coordinate. The gem will FLIP towards you (-) or away from you (+) if you are facing Cutting Disk 1 at the front of the table. 
* Finally, try using the X axis. The gem will TWIRL either clockwise (+ -check) or anticlockwise (-) around the middle of the front face. 

It's easiest to view the table while using the Explorer's Camera (F6) or Builder's Camera (F7). Adjust your distance and viewing angle until it feels comfortable for you.

Eventually you may want cut gems using the hotkeys, but it makes sense to become familiar with the way the cutting blades work first.

Cutting the Gem

Each gem is roughly a cube comprised of 7x7x7 smaller cubes (a bit like a Rubric's cube, except bigger). Some of the smaller cubes are empty, and they are 'flaws'. The combinations of flaws and solid gems and the three cutting blades creates an infinity of possible designs. To cut a gem to create a predetermined shape, as listed in the gem catalogue is a definitely a special task requiring a good sense of spatial relationships. The gem catalog will display a sample gem atop the pole on the table, as a reference.

There are three sanding disks. Each disc works in a different plane, and will remove 1 layer of solid gem each time you use it.

Disc 1 works in the vertical axis (90 degrees). Only using Disk 1 will make cubes and rectangular box shapes.

Disc 2 works on the edge to edge diagonal (45 degrees to Disk 1). Using only Disk 2 will make diamond shapes, sometimes with interesting edge patterns.

Disc 3 works on the corner to corner diagonal. (45 degrees to Disk 2) Using Disk 3 also creates diamond shapes, but in a different orientation.

Practice Session 2
* Use Disk 1 to find and cut a solid square of gem, in any size.
* Use Disk 2 to cut a solid diamond of gem, in any size.
* Use Disk 2 to cut a solid bar 3 segments tall and 1 segment deep and wide. The use Disk 3 to create a pyramid on each end. 
  Compare to the gem catalogue for "Thistle", and adjust as needed. You have made your first cut gem!

Making the most of Flaws

Sculptors sometimes say that they can see the statue hidden within a block of stone, and cut away all the bits that aren't part of the statue. This is sort of what happens with gem cutting. The desired cut gem is hidden within the rough stone. Sand away all the bits that are not what you want.

All cuttable gems have flaws, in an endless array of random configurations. Most types of cut gem can only be formed by taking advantage of flaws in the gem. For example, the "Eyelet" cut requires a flaw two layers deep, surrounded by unflawed gem. The "Full Eye" cut is harder, requiring a three-deep flaw and corresponding surrounding solid gem.

Before starting to cut any gem, examine it carefully to see what can be made from it. It is MUCH more economical to look first to see what is in the gem and take advantage of what you have than waste precious cuttable gems by going for only what you need. The rarest sets of flaws might just come up, giving you a chance at a Dragyn's Eye or Full Aidenn Mask, and those chances are not to be missed!

When you have produced an exact match for a cut gem, rotate the gem so it matches the catalogue example and complete the cut by selecting the type of gem you are making from the "finished cutting" menu of the cutting table. If your gem is an exact match for the sample in the catalogue, it will be removed from the table to your inventory.

Some gem cuts require flaws that are present in only a small fraction of rough gems. Zomboe, an expert gem cutter, has provided an approximate estimate of rarity: Tiki Mask is insanely rare. Others, in approximate order of decreasing rarity, are King's Tomb, Unity, Bridge, Lotus, Ring, Dragyn's Eye, Full Aidenn Mask, Ra's Lantern. If you find a rough gem with the right flaws/ solid characteristics that can be cut into one of these, it's usually best to do it even if you're currently looking for something else - you'll be glad of it later.

Cut Gem Catalogue

Feel free to replace pictures with better ones (preferably 120x120).
Cut Gem Carats Available Instructions Rarity Uses

Aidenn Mask

{Aidenn Mask (15 carat)} 15 Yes Two flaws next to each other with solid gem on the outside edge. To cut, use Disk 1 to cut away excess from the front and back of the flaws, then use Disk 2 to cut the angled edges. Rare

Amanti

{Amanti (11 carat)} 11 Yes Needs 2x2x2 piece of solid gem. Easy way to cut is to make a column of gem 2x2 using Disk 1. The use Disk 2, rotating on z between each cut to form one facetted side, flip over and continue cutting with Disk 2 until complete. Common. All 1 Cut Garnet: Amanti for Test of the Windsong

1 Cut Turquoise: Amanti for Test of the Windsong <Varying Amounts> Garnet: Amanti for Test of the Covered Cartouche

Amunet

{Amunet} 46 Yes Rare - needs a gem that is mostly solid. Face Disk 1 and use Disk 2 to cut a oblong 2 x 2, making sure that the centre of the long edges are not flawed. A few flaws on either end won't matter too much as you will cut them off in the next phase. Rotate the gem and camera to face Disk 2 and cut twice on all sides to create the point. Flip around to do the other side, checking to make sure that all goes well on the centre 'tab'.

Appolonia

{Appolonia (21 carat)} 21 Yes Using Disk 1, look for a 4 x 4 expanse of solid gem with a single flaw on one edge. Cut to a sheet 1 layer deep, then use Disk 2 to shape the angles around the flaw and to create the pointed bottom. If necessary, use Disk 1 to shape the sides. All 1 Cut (Any Gem): Appolonia for Test of the Windsong

Bastet

{Bastet (11 carat)} 11 Yes Find a 2 x 1 flaw with a solid are beneath the 'V' of the flaw. Use Disk 1 to cut away to a single layer, then flip and rotate to cut away the sides to form the 'ears' and Disk 2 to make the pointy 'chin'. All

Bridge

{Bridge (14 carat)} 14 Yes Rare because of the flaws but easy to cut when they are there! A pair of two-deep vertex flaws directly opposite each other separated with 1 x 1 solid gem. Cut to a single layer using Disk 1 and neaten the edges. Ultra-rare

Cat's Eye

{Cat's Eye (28 carat)} 28 Yes Find a two-deep flaw surrounded with solid gem. Trim off excess with Disk 1, then Disk 2 to do the corners. Flip so that the flaw is flat to the table and use Disk 1 to cut the faceted front, rotating on Z between each cut. Reorient to finish. Rare

Choronzon

{Choronzon (43 carat)} 43 Yes Needs a 2 deep x 3 wide x 3 high solid gem. Use Disk 1 to remove shallow flaws. With a flat side facing down use Disk 2 to cut opposing sides, flip and repeat. Stand the gem upright, and use Disk 3 for the corners. Might need Disk 1 to finish off. Common

Corner Heart

{Corner Heart (4 carat)} 4 Yes Use Disk 3 throughout. Cut to a nice line on top. Rotate on Z twice and cut to the line. Then flip on Y axis twice and cut to one side of the line. Flip on Z twice and keep cutting. The last cut reveals the little dimples and it's done! All

Crater

{Crater} 9 Yes A pair of Three-deep flaws intersecting. Cut away excess using Disk 1, then turn the gem over and use Disk 3 to form a point. Finally, use Disk 1 to cut off the point and rotate gem to match the example. very rare

Dalessi

{Dalessi (25 carat)} 25 Yes Start with a 2x2x2 solid square. Doesn't matter if some corners are missing. Rotate so any missing corners are at the top and facing Disk 3. Use Disk 3 to cut one side to the base. Rotate (Z twice) and repeat. Then go one more. Done! All

Dragyn's Eye

{Dragyn's Eye (17 carat)} 17 Yes The trick is to find 2 intersecting flaws with solid gem around them. Use Disk 1 to reveal the flaws on an edge and cut off the base. With the corner eyes facing away, use Disk 3 to shave away until you have the final cut. Rare

Eyelet

{Eyelet (16 carat)} 16 Yes A single flaw that is one layer deep. Find the flaw, then rotate on z axis twice and cut using Disk 1 to expose the other side. Then rotate on y axis and use Disk 1 to cut to a square around the diamond shaped flaw. Common.

Full Aidenn Mask

{Full Aiden Mask (21 carat)} 21 Yes Look for side by side two deep flaws with a facet missing between them. Use Disk 1 to cut all te way around. Orient the gem with the 'nose' flaw to the top and use Disk 2 on each side to finalise the cut. Ultra rare

Full Eye

{Full Eye (24 carat)} 24 Yes Look for a two deep single flaw, similar to an eyelet but twice as deep. Use Disk 1 throughout. Rotate the gem so the flaw is at the back and cut until the flaw is revealed. Then cut a square around the flaw, turning as needed. Rare

Hexas Plate

{Hexas Plate (9 carat)} 9 Yes Start using Disk 3 to find the 6-sided flaw surrounded with solid gem. Then use a combination of disks to trim around the edges, rotating as needed. Disk 3 will shave the back when the edges are done. A test of skill in spatial relations! All

Hile's Chevrons

{Hile's Chevrons (25 carat)} 25 Yes Rotate to find a face with mostly 1 deep flaws and use Disk 1 to remove. With the flat face to the front use Disk 3 to cut a 2x3 rectangle, twirling on x axis. When you rotate back around (on z axis), the distinctive facets are revealed. All

Khufu's Ship

{Khufu's Ship (22 carat)} 22 Yes Find a shallow 2x1 flaw. Use Disk 1 to cut to the edges and Disk 3 to cut points on both ends. With the flaw at the bottom use Disk 2 to make the keel and Disk 1 to make the blunt end. Rotate the blunt end to face Disk 2 an cut to finalise. Turn it over to see the boat! Uncommon

King's Tomb

{King's Tomb (43 carat)} 43 Yes One of the super rare gems to find. Needs single flaw in the centre of a side with solid gem 2 deep all around. Use Disk 1 to reveal the central dimple with solid gem all around it. Use Disk 3 to create the pyramid on the reverse, just like a Queens Tomb, but bigger. Ultra rare

Lens

{Lens (12 carat)} 12 Yes Use Disk 1 to cut a single layer of gem, looking for a 2 x 2 area of solid gem. Use Disk 2 to cut one edge of the diamond, then rotate progressively on x axis to shape the other 3 sides. Common. All

Looking Glass

{Looking Glass (24 carat)} 24 Yes Use Disk 1 to reveal a large area of unflawed gem. Flip on z twice and cut to a single thickness of gem. Continue with Disk 1 to cut to the final dimensions. Common

Lotus

{Lotus (19 carat)} 19 Yes Needs tow intersecting 2x1x1 flaws with solid on one side. Use Disk 1 to reveal the facetted centre and to cut around all 4 sides. Flip the column over and use Disk 3 to shape the four sides of the pointed side. Flip back over when complete. Ultra rare.

Moorish Arch

{Moorish Arch} 15 Yes Not as difficult as it looks. Find a two deep flaw near the centre of the gem, with solid on two sides (similar to a Full Eye). With the flaw facing Disk 2, use Disk 2 to slice to the edge of the flaw, then one more. Flip over and repeat. This creates the panel oriented on the diagonal. Rotate so the arch is upright and use disk 2 and then disk 3 to shape the top features of the arch to finish.

Osiris Eye

{Osiris Eye} 10 Yes Description: A long 3 width flaw with a 2-deep flaw in the middle. To cut, use Disk 1 to remove the excess gem from both long sides. Flip so the 'eye' is at the bottom and pointing towards the front of the table. Use Disk 2 to create a peak and reveal the central eye. Turn back around and position to use Disk 3 to cut the points at the top and bottom.

Prism

{Prism} Yes Cut a 2 x 2 x 2 square of solid gem using Disk 1. Then switch to Disk 2 and cut to the base of the gem. Reorient to match the example. Common

Queen's Tomb

{Queen's Tomb (18 carat)} 18 Yes Single flaw surrounded by a ring of unflawed gem Common

Ra's Lantern

{Ra's Lantern (27 carat)} 27 Yes Double-width vertex flaw, with one flaw two-deep, with unflawed gem on remaining three sides of prism Ultra rare

Reflection

{Reflection (14 carat)} 14 Yes Two two-deep vertex flaws next to each other, points touching Rare

Refractor

{Refractor} Yes Using Disk 3 reveal unflawed solid gem. Rotate once on Z and cut to a nice clean edge. Flip and rotate so the edge is opposite Disk 2 in the same alignment and cut the prism shape. Use disk 1 to trim the ends to the desired length.

Ring

{Ring (13 carat)} 13 Yes Look for a 'T' shaped flaw. With Disk 1 carefully cut to shape, keeping solid edges around the stem of the 'T'. Use Disk 2 around the 'stem' flaw to make the top of the ring. Flip over and use Disk 3 to cut to the base on all four sides. Ultra rare

Shen of Horus

{Shen of Horus} 28 No two adjacent 3-deep flaws, surrounded by unflawed gem crazy

Solarkin

{Solarkin} 24 No Find the flaw combination and the battle is almost over. Carve away all sides with Disk 3 to create the outline. With the key flaws down and the top facing Disk 2 cut to form the base. Turn on Z twice and shape the top.

Sprocket

{Sprocket (14 carat)} 14 Yes Needs a relatively unflawed diagonal plane. Position a large corner triangle opposite Disk 3, and cut to 3 deep. Cut a three sided shape using Disk 2, twirling on -X once and -Z three times to reposition. Flip over to work the same way on the other side, cutting to the edge of the first facet on the first face. Not as hard as it looks. All

Suspension

{Suspension} 9 Yes Very like a Corner Heart to cut, except bigger and with the gap on the bottom. Find an 'eyelet' flaw (not on an edge) with solid on opposing sides. Turn the gem so the flaw is facing Disk 3 and cut to the centre of the flaw. Rotate on x twice and repeat. This will form the gap at the bottom of the cut between the two pointy legs. Rotate on Y to sit the gem on its legs and rotate on Z and use Disk 3 to shave away to form the distinctive shape. The 'dimples' will appear on the final cut.

Symmetry

{Symmetry (19 carat)} 19 Yes Cut a 2x2x2 square of solid gem using Disk 1. Then use Disk 3 to shave off each corner. All

The Fox

The fox.gif ? No

The Shark

The shark.gif 8 Yes Find and cut a Full Eye, then use Disk 3 to take away opposing corners. Rare

Thistle

{Thistle (12 carat)} 12 Yes One way to cut this is to use Disk 2 to make a long diamond shaped oblong. Turn it upright (y axis) and use Disk 3 to form one pointy end, rotating on z as you go. Then flip over and repeat on the other side until you complete the cut. All

Thoth's Knot

{Thoth's Knot (18 carat)} 18 No Two lines of three flaws, crossing adjacent to one another, with solid gem beside each and 1 cell of gem above and below Ultra rare

Tiki Mask

{Tiki Mask (35 carat)} 35 No Double-width one-deep vertex flaw Ultra rare

Tombstone

{Tombstone} 26 No

Triclops

{Triclops} 14 Yes Easy to cut once you spot the three single flaws in a row. Use Disk 1 to cut to a single layer, the remove the excess to the top and bottom of the row. Finally, use Disk 2 to neaten the edges. Rare

Unity

{Unity (36 carat)} 36 Yes Two-deep vertex flaw surrounded by an area of unflawed gem. The trick is to find the configuration of flaw and unflawed gem. To cut, look for a Full Eye surrounded by solid gem, and use Cutting Disk 2 to create the distinctive frame around the central flaw. Ultra rare