Sourcing glass cabochons from China
Glass cabochons from China under heading 7018 pay 0% UK duty across the relevant lines, with no anti-dumping or countervailing duty shown. Jewellery-making components are subject to UK REACH lead restrictions, with a crystal glass derogation. Cambridge China Bridge sources glass cabochons.
Duty and classification for glass cabochons
Read from the UK Trade Tariff on 30 September 2026, heading 7018 covers glass imitation gemstones and similar glass smallwares, alongside other glass products. Loose glass cabochons may fit the imitation-gemstone or other-smallware descriptions. The table gives candidate lines, rather than a single code for every cabochon. See the flatback glass rhinestone guide for the wider heading.
The supplied tariff record shows 0% duty for goods from China throughout this heading, with no anti-dumping duty, countervailing duty or suspensions listed. Its other-glass-article lines attach cat and dog fur import and export controls. Imports and exports of that fur and products made from it are banned. For cabochons supplied with fur-containing decorations, ask your customs broker to confirm the applicable control before ordering.
Confirm the commodity code using photographs, material composition, dimensions and whether the cabochons are cut and mechanically polished or pressed. Describe any backing or attached component. Finished jewellery is classified separately as imitation jewellery. Import VAT is normally 20%; see UK import duty and VAT for the calculation.
| Goods | Commodity code | Duty | Anti-dumping or countervailing duty on China |
|---|---|---|---|
| Glass imitation gemstones, cut and mechanically polished | 7018 10 51 00 | 0% | None |
| Other glass imitation gemstones, including suitable pressed cabochons | 7018 10 59 00 | 0% | None |
| Other glass smallwares, diameter not exceeding 2 mm | 7018 10 90 10 | 0% | None |
| Other glass smallwares outside the smaller-diameter line | 7018 10 90 90 | 0% | None |
Specify the dome, back and intended use
Specify glass rather than resin, outline shape, width, length, dome height and dimensional tolerances. State whether the back must be flat, clear, painted, printed or foil-backed. Supply the actual bezel or mounting recess for sample fitting. For clear cabochons placed over artwork, approve the magnification and image distortion using the intended print and adhesive.
For jewellery-making, confirm applicable UK REACH lead restrictions for individual jewellery components and any crystal glass exemption with the relevant authority. Ask for material information and relevant test results for the actual glass, colours and coatings. Treat a supplier's crystal description as a claim to check. Consumer products sold in Great Britain must be safe in normal or reasonably foreseeable use, so assess chipped edges, breakage and loose small pieces.
Worked duty example
Illustrative example, not a quote: Illustrative order: 18,000 loose pressed glass imitation-gemstone cabochons under 7018 10 59 00, invoiced at £3,900 free on board, with £1,500 of freight and insurance to the UK. The customs value is £5,400. Duty at 0% is £0. Import VAT at 20% is charged on the customs value plus duty, £5,400, so it is £1,080. With no duty, the only import tax is the VAT, which a VAT-registered importer can usually reclaim. The import duty and VAT guide explains each step.
Inspection checklist
Dimensions and fit: measure the outline and dome height, check back flatness, and trial-fit samples from different packs in the approved bezel.
Glass and edges: inspect for chips, sharp edges, scratches, bubbles and inclusions; compare clarity and colour with the approved sample.
Backing and bonding: check print alignment, foil coverage and coating rub resistance; bond samples using the intended adhesive and inspect for clouding or lifting.
Packs and evidence: check counts, shape and colour separation, protective packing and test-report correspondence with the supplied finish. Use the quality inspection guide to prepare the inspection brief.
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What goes wrong
A matching nominal size can hide an oversized outline or a domed back that will not sit in the bezel. Uneven dome profiles distort artwork differently across a pack. Scratches and bubbles become more visible over printed images, while weak foil or paint can lift during bonding.
Approve samples with the actual mount, artwork and adhesive before ordering. Record acceptable appearance and fit in the purchase specification. Check incoming packs before mixing them into stock, and separate chipped pieces and mismatched finishes for supplier review.
Cambridge China Bridge sources these products for UK businesses, checking the factory and the documents before shipment. See factory verification. For own-brand ranges, see sourcing for brands.
Frequently asked questions
What is the UK import duty on glass cabochons from China?
The supplied tariff record shows 0% duty across the relevant heading 7018 lines, with no anti-dumping or countervailing duty. Import VAT is normally 20%.
Which commodity code covers glass cabochons?
Check whether they are glass imitation gemstones or other glass smallwares, and whether they are cut and mechanically polished or pressed. The table lists candidate codes; confirm the description before declaring.
Do glass cabochons for jewellery need lead checks?
Confirm applicable UK REACH lead restrictions for individual jewellery components and any crystal glass exemption with the relevant authority. Ask for material information and relevant test results rather than relying on a crystal description.
Why do glass cabochons turn cloudy after gluing?
The adhesive or its interaction with the backing can affect clarity. Trial the intended adhesive on the actual cabochon and artwork, then check clouding, backing lift and bond strength before ordering.