2024 AGTA GemFair Tucson Live Cutting Seminars

Live Gem Cutting Cutters Bench

Sponsored by: Todd Wacks, Tucson Todd

Wednesday, January 31 through Friday, February 2, 2024
Tucson Convention Center, Meeting Room 204

Live Gem Cutting, On the Fly Gemstone Cutting

Wednesday, January 31
Meeting Room 204
12:00 – 12:55

Learn how to create a custom cut for any piece of rough to produce the most optimal stone.

Presented by Todd Wacks, Tucson Todd

Live Gem Cutting, Recutting to Close a Window

Thursday, February 1
Meeting Room 204
12:00 – 12:55

Author and Gemcutter Justin K Prim will be demonstrating the process of recutting and repolishing using a Sri Lankan style handpiece-style faceting machine. The faceting style and machine that will be demonstrated is not typical for gemstone cutting in America, so the demonstration should prove quite interesting.

Presented by Justin Prim, Magus Gems

Live Gem Cutting, Illuminate Brilliance: A Gem Cutter’s Masterclass

Friday, February 2
12:00 – 12:55
Meeting Room 204

This immersive experience is designed for both aspiring and seasoned gem cutters who seek to elevate their craft to new heights.
Seminar Highlights:

  • GemCut Studio Mastery: Unleash the full potential of GemCut Studio as we delve into the intricacies of designing gemstones. Learn the tips and tricks to navigate this powerful tool and bring your creative visions to life.
  • Optimal Angles for Optics: Discover the science behind the sparkle. We will unravel the secrets of optimal cutting angles to achieve breathtaking brilliance and maximize light return in your gemstones. Gain insights into the nuanced world of gem optics and elevate your precision in every cut.
  • Fantasy Cutting Exploration: Immerse yourself in the realm of fantasy cutting, where creativity knows no bounds. Explore unconventional faceting patterns and unleash your imagination to carve unique, one-of-a-kind gemstones. Break free from tradition and let your artistic expression shine through.
  • Advanced Tooling Techniques: Elevate your skills with insights into advanced tooling techniques. From selecting the right tools for the job to mastering their use, this segment will equip you with the knowledge to enhance the efficiency and precision of your gem cutting.
  • Artistic Style Integration: Elevate your craft from technical precision to artistic mastery. Learn how to infuse your personal style into your gem cutting, creating pieces that transcend the ordinary. Discover the delicate balance between science and artistry, making each gem a unique masterpiece.

    Who Should Attend:

  • Enthusiastic beginners eager to enter the world of gem cutting.
  • Experienced gem cutters looking to refine their techniques.
  • Artists seeking to integrate their creative flair into the precision of gem cutting.

Presented by Nolan Sponsler Owner & Goldsmith of Deep River Jewelry Design