David Papaux
Switzerland 2019
I started with a course at Free Form Artists in Montreux in Switzerland where I learned the basics of precision cutting. Precision because the focus is on the accuracy of the angles of each facet determined by the optical density of the material being cut . . . .
The story of a tanzanite beeing re-cut
Abel Goineau
F-97500 Saint Pierre Miquelon France Mai 2012
Bonjour
Je mets en application, non sans peine, les bons principes que vous nous avez enseignés, . . . . . . . . Ce n'est pas évident de travailler tout seul, loin de tout, j'ai l'impression d'ëtre un robinson crusoé de la bijouterie, sur mon ile.
Bien à vous
Abel Goineau.
Simon Zaletel
Ireland 2006
Hello Hubert and Katerina,
I has been 1 year today since I was last in Montreaux and picking up my machine. Thought I would share with you what has happened in my year.
I have cut some 60+ stones since I brought my machine home. I have only abandoned 1 stone and I have cut stones in many different designs ranging in size from 0.4ct to 47.5ct. I have enjoyed the hunt for designs to fit the rough as well as the challenge to get some of those facets to polish perfectly. I believe all my stones are cut well and have gotten faster with the whole process.
I have also just completed the gemmology course offered here in Galway, Ireland. The two year course was the first of its kind here in Ireland and the two years covered geology, crystallography and the various gemological tools.
I have been on your web site some time ago and see that you have helped to create the beginnings of a faceting industry in Tanzania, good. I also see that Katerina was photographed and mentioned in Jeff Graham's annual Tucson Gem show review, great.
I again thank you for your patience, hospitality and inspiration when I visited you. Being here at home I do not receive your patience or hospitality anymore but your inspiration remains with me.
Cheers, to the year,
Simon Zaletel