The term taviz is used to describe a facetted barrel shaped Indian gem with drill holes at the top of the stone. These were strung on silk thread to be worn close to the skin so as to allow the wearer all the benefits of the gem.

The cushion-shaped diamond mounted by Cartier shows the distinctive drill holes to one side of the stone clearly suggesting its old Indian provenance. It is very likely that this gem was re-fashioned into a more brilliant style of cut at the beginning of the 20th century.