What is Fantasy Cutting?
A Modern Sculptural Approach to Gemstone Art
Fantasy cutting is a specialized lapidary technique that transforms gemstones into sculptural, dimensional, and optical illusion–inspired works of art. Unlike traditional faceting — which follows strict geometric rules — fantasy cutting blends precision faceting with hand carving, creating effects that cannot be replicated by machines or mass production.
Each fantasy cut gemstone is a one-of-a-kind piece, created through a hybrid process of carving, faceting, polishing, and artistic interpretation.
At Fantasy Gems & Jewelry, all fantasy cut gemstones are designed and hand-cut by award-winning lapidary artist Nick Alexander, using a combination of geometric faceting, sculptural carving, V-cuts, groove work, and bubble carving to create dynamic light performance and contemporary gemstone design.
How Fantasy Cutting Differs from Traditional Faceting
Traditional Faceting
Traditional faceting focuses on:
- maximizing brilliance through symmetrical facet patterns
- repeating geometric designs
- achieving consistent light return
- following established cutting diagrams
It creates precision-cut stones — beautiful, but predictable.
Fantasy Cutting
Fantasy cutting expands the artistic possibilities by incorporating:
- sculptural carving
- concave facets and V-cuts
- layered dimensional textures
- optical illusions and depth effects
- hybrid faceting + carving techniques
- movement and flow within the stone
Instead of focusing solely on symmetry, fantasy cutting explores the gemstone’s internal architecture, turning light into an expressive visual element.
Where traditional faceting reflects light in uniform patterns, fantasy cutting creates:
- waves of motion
- shifting reflections
- refractive patterns
- unexpected depth
- bold geometric contrasts
Every angle reveals something new — a hallmark of true fantasy gemstone art.
How Fantasy Cut Gemstones Are Made
Nick Alexander uses a wide range of professional lapidary tools, including:
- Precision faceting machines
- Index gear systems
- Diamond wheels
- Concave faceting laps
- Carving burs
- Sintered carving tools
- Polishing systems
- Custom tools for layered and optical effects
A typical fantasy cut is created through a layered process of:
- Shaping the stone based on its natural form and color zoning
- Creating geometric foundations using faceting techniques
- Carving sculptural elements such as V-cuts, grooves, and bubbles
- Layering dimensional textures to enhance optical depth
- Polishing both faceted and carved surfaces to a mirror finish
- Evaluating the stone at each stage to refine motion, symmetry, and flow
Because this process is guided by artistry rather than strict diagrams, no two fantasy cuts can ever be identical.
Why Collectors & Designers Love Fantasy Cut Gemstones
Fantasy cut gemstones are sought after because they offer:
- One-of-a-kind artistry: Each stone is individually sculpted — never repeated, never mass-produced.
- Dynamic light performance: Layered cuts create shifting reflections, depth, and movement.
- Sculptural appeal: Each stone is a small piece of gemstone sculpture, blending jewelry design with lapidary art.
- Versatility for modern jewelry: Fantasy cuts pair beautifully with contemporary, geometric, and custom jewelry designs.
- Increased visual depth: Carved surfaces interact with light in ways traditional facets cannot achieve.
- Artistic value: Collectors appreciate fantasy cutting as a form of gemstone art — not just a cutting style.
Fantasy Cutting by Nick Alexander
Nick’s signature style combines:
- sculptural carving
- architectural geometry
- V-cuts and bubble carving
- layered dimensional textures
- optical illusion–inspired effects
- hybrid faceting + carving techniques
His approach is material-responsive — allowing each gemstone’s natural structure to influence its final sculptural form.
This elevated, contemporary approach to lapidary art has earned Nick national awards, museum invitations, and recognition across the gemstone industry.
