Faceted stone design software

[Faceting Frank]

Thinking of buying  faceted stone design software. Did download Gemcad a few years ago for a free trial, didn't think much of it the graphics looked 1980s age, so never bought it. Have looked at gemcutstudio on their website and it looks good. So the question is who has the best software for gem design?

[MakkyBrown]

GCS if you were to pick one.
What I really like
-Frosted facets feature
-Manual optimizer mode
-Currently being developed/improved, with future updates likely
-Files do not get corrupt and stop opening due to glitches
-Australian made and well supported.
-I've heard a lot of new cutters really like the cutting assistant feature which is helpful when starting out though I doubt you would use it Frank.

I use Gemcad, Gemray and GCS on a daily basis, I prefer to draw with Gemcad but that is only because I am set in my ways so to speak.

MB

[Faceting Frank]

Thanks for that. Gem Cut Studio does look a better option.

[Rusted]

I agree with GCS, I bought Gemcad years ago but always thought it was a bit clunky and the software could do with a redesign.
I tried GCS and was hooked, I really like it, it's quite intuitive software, easy to learn and does things how you would expect, I bought it too, well worth it.

[FlashGP]

Frank, I have both.  GCS is newer and quicker to use and learn.  Both have a couple of rarely used features the other doesn’t.  But GCS is a complete package with built in optimiser.  Gemcad has an optional companion programme called GemRay.  The Gemcad/GemRay suite is USD140 compared to USD100 for GCS. 

GCS is more intuitive so it is my pick.

Frank, Henk Prins is up your neck if the woods, he should be able to give you a few pointers if you get stuck.  Otherwise feel free to pm me with queries or ask the forum.  It’s end of financial year and I haven’t been checking the forum as often as I should have.