I (Joyce) started learning cutting around 2020 after I finished GIA in the hopes of creating a jewelry line. When it came time to buy stones, I felt that the available selection of colored stones was limited and sometimes lacking in precision. Thus I began cutting with the original goal of just being able to pay off my machine and supply myself with a couple gems, but absolutely fell in love with the process! I spent months learning the craft on my own, and then took a class with Hashnu Stones. His teachings pushed me in the right direction and propelled me to where I am today. After learning gem cutting I became obsessed with precision and color - I pour my heart into the art of cutting gems. Recently I was blessed to be awarded our first AGTA Spectrum Award by cutting an exceptional Montana Sapphire provided by Obsessed Over Gems! I hope this is the first in a long career of gem cutting!

 

Scott jumped aboard recently. He has been involved with the gem community for a few years now, with both gemstone design and cutting. He is quickly gaining recognition as he continues to provide high-performance designs that are optimized for the materials. His interest in gemstones and faceting began while he was pursuing a Bachelor’s degree in geology with a minor in metalsmithing. Scott began transforming his mineral specimens into jewelry using the combined knowledge of geology and gemstone design. During this exploration stage, faceting and gem design took over as his main focus. Scott quickly discovered his style and decided to work on his own designs, initially drawing inspiration from other gem designers. In the recent years, Scott has released a few designs into public forums where they have grown in popularity. His style highlights simple geometries and symmetries in combination with highly stylized crowns that provide optimal light return.