22 years ago a young boy was given a gemstone that would change his life forever.

My journey started as a 7 year old holding a loose gemstone for the first time that was a gift from my father, it was an old and very worn African amethyst that had fallen out of one of his rings, I was enamored by this little shining rock. Like any kid my age, I started a rock collection—eventually it grew into a fascination for the art of creating jewelry, it was the hobby that started it all. Years later in high school, I had continued my hobby of collecting rocks and gemstones but I wanted something more. I eventually found it my senior year in a lost wax jewelry class, allowing me to create works of wearable art.

"I had always dreamed of learning to facet, but I had no idea of what I needed or where to begin.”

After graduation I attended the California Institute of Jewelry Training, located in Carmichael, specializing in Jewelry Repair and Fine Jewelry. During my last class I met Don Meuchel, I discovered he was a hobby faceter, someone who cut gemstones just for the joy of doing it, and after developing our friendship I was compelled to learn more about this fascinating art. I had always dreamed of learning to facet, but I had no idea of what I needed or where to begin. He offered me my first lesson if I was able to obtain the necessary tools to get started, and within short time I was under his instruction and on my way to becoming a custom faceter.

"It has been a path of discovery and a rewarding journey that is only just beginning."

It has now been almost 10 years since and I have perfected my skills and become a much more accomplished cutter and photographer. I have been lucky enough to develop connections and make hundreds of friends around the world, granting me the privilege of cutting rare and valuable pieces for customers in far off destinations, to others in my own hometown. It has been a path of discovery and a rewarding journey that is only just beginning. Adventure awaits as I look forward to traveling to exotic mining destinations and experiencing diverse cultures around the world, all thanks to the support of my friends, family, and a Father that helped make one little boy's dream come true.