THE ULTIMATE CREATIVE BOUNDARY PUSHING PROJECT - or - How to Get a Wizard to Custom Cut Your Gem

Jean-Noel Soni, Top Notch Faceting

For all you folks who say you want something “truly unique” we know a guy who is about to blow your mind: Jean-Noel Soni of Top Notch Faceting. This guy cuts gems to look like optical illusions. Seriously, they look like something from the bottom corner of a kaleidoscope viewer. Should he cut the center gem for your engagement ring? Are you cool enough? 

Here are a few hints that he might be the magician for you:

• You're high on life.
  
  
• You purchase sculpture. Because you like it.
  
  
• Maybe you’ve waved at someone while you were in traffic.
  
  
• Have you ever seen the title of a blog: The 5 most beautiful, pristine camping spots that no human has even been to,” complete with geotags and directions, and wanted to punch the author in the face?
  
  
• You skinny dip whenever you can get away with it.
  
  
• You get how Rainn Wilson is attractive.
  
  
• Have you ever saved an animal which then lived in your shirt pocket? Are you just waiting for the opportunity?
  
  
• You believe nothing lasts forever. Awww sorry for being serious.
  
  
• You say that the last good year at Burning Man was 2001. And no one can tell if you’re kidding.
  
  
• You’ve won an official air guitar contest.
  
  
• You have faith in artists.

Or maybe you are just a freak on the inside. Bottom line, this is for the person who says “you pick” and really means it. Is this for you? Yes? Then let's hold hands and dance.

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STEP 1:  Behold a collection of rough stones in a tattooed palm, or a beaded basket, or a piece of velvet. Pick your poison.

STEP 2:  Jean-Noel will take that rock under his wing and through a mystical & highly specialized process. 

STEP 3:  An artist of your choice will work with you to design the ring around the one-of-a-kind masterpiece.

note: these images do not feature the same exact gem, rather they help you understand the process.

start with rocks

he makes magic

find a designer to set the stone (note: each image features a different type of gem)

Now how to make this happen for yourself? Jean-Noel Soni works with many designers and we would be happy to help put you in touch.

Jean-Noel Soni is based in San Francisco, where he lives with his family. He travels a lot. You can get to drooling here.