Unlike diamonds, rubies can be cut to be faceted or unfaceted.

Unfaceted rubies are called cabochons, a popular form being the sugarloaf carbochon, which has a smooth high-domed table. Star rubies which display asterism are also cut into cabochons, making exquisite jewelry pieces.

Most rubies are cut faceted. For faceted rubies, all different shapes and cutting styles exist, although n brilliant cut oval or round shape is most preferred. Some other popular ruby shapes include square, pear-shaped, and heart-shaped.