💎 Gem Cutting & Spinning Calculator

How Gem Cutting Profit Works

Gem cutting converts uncut gems into their cut versions, providing Crafting XP and a potential profit margin. You can cut approximately 2,700 gems per hour using the standard chisel method. Crafting levels range from 1 for opal up to 89 for zenyte, with higher-tier gems generally offering larger margins and more XP per cut.

The economics of gem cutting are straightforward: buy uncut gems on the GE, cut them, and sell the cut versions back. Profit depends on the spread between uncut and cut prices minus any failed cuts at lower Crafting levels. Dragonstone and onyx typically have the largest absolute margins, while sapphires and rubies offer faster sales due to higher demand from bolt tip crafting and jewellery enchanting.

Gem cutting is unique because it trains a useful skill while generating income — most Crafting methods cost money. The Bolt Enchanting Calculator is a natural companion, since cut gems are used to create gem-tipped bolts. For other profitable Crafting methods, check the Tan Leather Calculator or the Money Making Guide.

Strategy Tips for Gem Cutting

Pair gem cutting with bolt enchanting for a double profit chain. Cut gems into bolt tips, attach them to bolts, then enchant the bolts. Each step adds value, and you control the entire production pipeline. This is especially effective with ruby and diamond bolt tips, which have high PvM demand.

Consider the tradeoff between dragonstone and sapphire. Dragonstones typically have the highest per-gem profit but lower trading volume. Sapphires and rubies move faster on the GE due to bolt tip demand, making them better for active flippers who want fast turnover. Check both profit and volume before committing to a gem type.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Cutting gems with high crush rate at low Crafting — At lower Crafting levels, you can crush gems (losing them entirely). This significantly reduces profit and can turn a positive margin negative. Only cut gems you can handle reliably at your level.
2. Not checking both uncut and cut prices — The margin depends on both sides. Sometimes uncut gem prices spike due to Mining updates while cut prices remain flat, compressing your margin.
3. Ignoring bolt tip value — Cut gems can be turned into bolt tips for additional value. Check whether selling the cut gem directly or converting to bolt tips first yields better profit.