How to Cut Uncut Gems in OSRS: A Complete Guide for Beginners and Pros
If you’re diving into the world of Old School RuneScape (OSRS), mastering the art of cutting uncut gems can be a game-changer. Whether you’re looking to level up your Crafting skill, craft valuable jewelry, or simply make some extra gold, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know about cutting uncut gems in OSRS. From gathering the right tools to understanding the process and maximizing profits, we’ve got you covered. Let’s get started!
Cutting uncut gems is one of the fastest and most accessible ways to train your Crafting skill in OSRS. It’s a straightforward process that yields decent experience points (XP) and can even turn a profit if done strategically. Plus, cut gems are essential for creating jewelry, which can be enchanted or sold for additional rewards. Whether you’re a newbie or a seasoned player, knowing how to cut gems efficiently is a must.
The Benefits of Cutting Gems
- Fast Crafting XP: Cutting gems offers some of the highest XP rates for early-to-mid Crafting levels.
- Versatility: Cut gems can be used to craft rings, necklaces, amulets, and bolt tips.
- Profit Potential: Depending on market prices, cutting certain gems can net you a tidy profit.
What You’ll Need Before You Start
Before you can cut uncut gems, you’ll need a few basic items and some preparation. Here’s the rundown:
- A Chisel: The essential tool for cutting gems, available at general stores or the Grand Exchange for about 500 gold pieces (GP).
- Uncut Gems: These can be mined, looted, or bought from the Grand Exchange.
- Crafting Level: Each gem type requires a specific Crafting level to cut.
How to Get Uncut Gems in OSRS
Before you can cut gems, you need to gather them. OSRS offers several methods to obtain uncut gems, catering to different playstyles. Here’s how you can stock up:
Mining Gem Rocks
Mining is the most reliable way to gather uncut gems. Gem rocks are found in specific locations, such as:
- Shilo Village: Requires completion of the “Shilo Village” quest and 40 Mining.
- Lunar Isle Mine: Accessible after starting the “Lunar Diplomacy” quest.
- Tai Bwo Wannai Cleanup: Gems can appear as a random event during this minigame.
Wearing a charged Amulet of Glory boosts your gem mining speed, making this method even more efficient.
Looting from Monsters
Many monsters drop uncut gems as part of their loot table. Slayer tasks are particularly lucrative for this, with higher-level monsters like those assigned by Konar dropping gems frequently. The Brimstone Chest (unlocked with Brimstone Keys) is another great source for noted gems.
Thieving and Random Events
For those with nimble fingers, stealing from gem stalls in Ardougne or Kourend Castle (75 Thieving required) can yield uncut gems. Random events throughout the game also occasionally reward you with gems—keep an eye out!
Step-by-Step Guide to Cutting Uncut Gems
Now that you’ve got your uncut gems and a chisel, it’s time to start cutting. The process is simple but requires the right Crafting level for each gem type. Here’s how to do it:
Step 1: Check Your Crafting Level
Each gem has a minimum Crafting level requirement. Cutting a gem below the required level isn’t possible, so make sure you’re prepared. See the table below for details.
Step 2: Equip Your Chisel
Place a chisel in your inventory. You don’t need to wield it—just having it available is enough.
Step 3: Cut the Gems
Right-click an uncut gem in your inventory, select “Use,” and then click your chisel. Alternatively, use the chisel on the gem. If you have multiple gems, a pop-up will ask how many you want to cut. Sit back and watch your character work through them one by one.
Gem Cutting Levels and XP Table
| Gem Type | Crafting Level Required | XP Gained | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Uncut Opal | 1 | 15 | Can crush if failed |
| Uncut Jade | 13 | 20 | Can crush if failed |
| Uncut Red Topaz | 16 | 25 | Can crush if failed |
| Uncut Sapphire | 20 | 50 | No crushing risk |
| Uncut Emerald | 27 | 67.5 | No crushing risk |
| Uncut Ruby | 34 | 85 | No crushing risk |
| Uncut Diamond | 43 | 107.5 | No crushing risk |
| Uncut Dragonstone | 55 | 137.5 | Members only |
| Uncut Onyx | 67 | 167.5 | Members only |
| Uncut Zenyte | 89 | 200 | Members only, rare |
Tips for Maximizing Efficiency and Profit
Cutting gems isn’t just about grinding XP—it can also be a money-making venture if you play it smart. Here are some pro tips to get the most out of your gem-cutting adventures.
Focus on High-XP Gems
For pure Crafting XP, prioritize rubies (level 34) and diamonds (level 43). They offer a great balance of XP per gem and are relatively affordable to buy in bulk from the Grand Exchange.
Check Grand Exchange Prices
Before cutting, compare the price of uncut vs. cut gems. Sometimes uncut gems sell for more due to demand from players training Crafting. If profit is your goal, sell uncut gems when the margin favors them, or cut and sell when cut gems fetch a higher price.
Avoid Crushing Low-Level Gems
Opals, jade, and red topaz can crush if your Crafting level isn’t high enough, wasting the gem. Either level up past the risk (around level 20) or skip these gems altogether unless you’re desperate for early XP.
Use Cut Gems for Jewelry
Take your cut gems to a furnace with gold bars to craft jewelry. Rings, necklaces, and amulets provide additional Crafting XP and can be enchanted with Magic for combat or skilling boosts, increasing their value.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Cutting Gems
Even seasoned players can slip up when cutting gems. Avoid these pitfalls to save time, gold, and frustration.
Overbuying Uncut Gems
It’s tempting to stockpile uncut gems, but market prices fluctuate. Buy only what you need for your current Crafting goals to avoid losses if prices drop.
Ignoring Crafting Levels
Attempting to cut a gem above your level won’t work, and failing low-level cuts wastes resources. Always double-check your level against the gem’s requirement.
Not Banking Efficiently
Cutting gems near a bank (like in Varrock or Edgeville) saves travel time. Fill your inventory, cut, deposit, and repeat for maximum efficiency.
Cutting uncut gems in OSRS is a rewarding skill that blends simplicity with strategy. Whether you’re chasing Crafting levels, crafting powerful jewelry, or turning a profit, this guide has equipped you with the knowledge to succeed. Grab your chisel, stock up on gems, and start cutting your way to greatness in Gielinor!