At 17, a newspaper ad in the Twin Cities introduced me to the lapidary arts, stone faceting, and custom metalwork in Elk River. What began as a simple curiosity instantly sparked a lifelong passion, launching over five decades of dedicated gem cutting and craftsmanship.

My journey began with Coober Pedy opals, but everything changed when I discovered the vibrant, rich gems of Lightning Ridge and Grawin. Opening up a rough Lightning Ridge stone was like opening a Christmas present every single day, no matter the month or the year. Cutting into a piece to bring out colors even the rainbow couldn't produce was breathtaking. Watching the fire dance and move never lost its magic.

Over the decades, building direct relationships with Australian miners allowed me to source incredible material and pass those honest prices straight on to my customers so everyone could succeed together.

As mining shifted in Australia, the arrival of Ethiopian opal opened up a whole new world. I discovered the fascinating beauty that these stones unlocked—sometimes truly extraordinary. By finding the fire line and cutting them with precision, you bring out an internal radiance that looks like it is lit from within, shining brightly from every angle in any light.

For me, gem cutting was never just a business; it's a lifelong passion and dedication to the stone. Whether faceting or shaping cabochons, my goal remains the same: to do what I love, offer fine opals at honest fair prices, and let the true value stay with the person who holds the finished gem.