Abstract: A cutting element is composed of a metal carbide stud having an outer hemispherical distal end which has a series of annular ridges. The tops of the annual ridges are substantially non-planar, i.e., curvilinear, such that the angle formed between the slope on either side is less than 120.degree.. There are no surfaces tangent to vertical on such ridges. A layer of polycrystalline superabrasive material is disposed over the annular ridges. This cutter is easily manufacturable as the metal stud can be pressed and extracted from the punch without further machining and the surface geometry of the metal stud allows for complete PCD compaction during diamond sintering.