Awards/Recognition
Early Recognition
U of A Museum Planetarium — “Somewhere in the Rainbow” Project
At just fifteen years old, Nick Alexander was invited by Somewhere in the Rainbow, one of the world’s most respected gemstone collections, to participate in a landmark exhibition honoring Buddha Blue — the first known concave-faceted gemstone in history.
Along with nine master lapidary artists, Nick was selected to cut a synthetic sapphire inspired by this historic gem.
His piece was later showcased at:
- The Las Vegas JCK Show
- JTV Gemlovers
- The University of Arizona Planetarium Museum
This early recognition placed Nick alongside some of the most accomplished cutters in the country and fueled his commitment to pursue lapidary art at a world-class level.
National Awards
2019 AGTA Spectrum Awards
The AGTA Spectrum Awards remain the most prestigious competition in the world of colored gemstones. At age eighteen, Nick became one of the youngest artists ever to place in this elite competition — achieving a personal milestone he had set for himself years earlier.
This accomplishment marked his entry into the highest ranks of American lapidary art, opening doors to national media coverage, new collectors, and professional visibility.
2022 AGTA Spectrum Awards
Three years later, Nick earned a second Spectrum Award with another masterfully cut Oregon Sunstone. This win further established his signature style, marked by fantasy cut gemstones, sculptural gemstone carvings, and architectural precision.
Today, Nick is recognized as a rising leader in the evolution of modern American lapidary art.
Exhibitions & Special Invitations
AGTA Show Floor Exhibition (2019)
Nick debuted his work on the AGTA show floor in Tucson, presenting his gemstone artistry to an international audience of jewelers, collectors, and designers. This moment marked the official introduction of his professional lapidary voice.
Smithsonian Museum Invitation
After his Spectrum Award recognition, Nick and his father, renowned gem artist Darryl Alexander, were invited for a private VIP tour of the Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History gemstone and jewelry vaults — a rare honor usually reserved for industry legends.
At the conclusion of their visit, the Smithsonian requested that Nick cut a display piece of Oregon Pink Opal for consideration in their collection, marking one of the highest forms of recognition in lapidary art.
Alfie Norville Museum Exhibition (2021)
In 2021, Nick’s gemstone artwork was selected for exhibition at the University of Arizona’s Alfie Norville Gem and Mineral Museum, a nationally recognized institution showcasing the finest examples of lapidary and mineral artistry.
Media & Publications
GIA Interview (2019)
Following his AGTA success, the Gemological Institute of America (GIA) interviewed Nick during the Tucson Gem Show to discuss his creative process, artistic influences, and approach to modern gemstone carving.
[Click here to view the interview →]
Magazine Features
Nick’s work has been featured in leading jewelry and gemstone publications — including JCK Magazine, Rock & Gem Magazine, GIA, and other international media outlets covering contemporary lapidary art.
These features highlight his distinctive contribution to fantasy cut gemstones, innovative carving techniques, and modern gemstone design.
