On Sunday, I had the pleasure of visiting Joy Street Studios, a collaborative workspace in Somerville, MA that is the home for studios of artisans in all genres. The attraction? Joy Street Studios was hosting none other than Jean-Noel Soni, the award winning gem cutter that is Top Notch Faceting.
After many months of watching his sought after gemstones appear (and disappear) on Instagram it was wonderful to finally met Jean-Noel, and witness the brilliance of his award winning gems in person!
 |
| Jean-Noel showing a crystal, photograph by Alexis Kletjian |
Jean-Noel was raised by his mother, who had a passion for collecting antique jewelry. It was through her inspiration that he sought out a class in metal smithing. The (highly unusual) teacher of the class demanded gem cutting cabochons as a prerequisite before he began his education. It is there that Jean-Noel developed his admiration for the crystal, in all its forms. He has such appreciation for the stones he selects, some never get his special faceting at all.
 |
| Nigerian Phenakites shown in a rough specimen and beautifully faceted by Jean-Noel Soni |
In the few short years since Jean-Noel has been faceting gems, he has won two AGTA Spectrum Awards. He won first place in 2013 for the Innovative Faceting category with a 7.7 carat pink and gold bi-color West African Tourmaline, and recently won third place this past February, 2014 for a 24.12 carat Tanzanian Color Change Garnet in the Phenomenal Gemstone category.
 |
| Award Winning Phenomenal Color Change Garnet by Top Notch Faceting |
Not only is this award winning garnet phenomenal in its own right, but phenomenal actually describes the type of gemstone it is - and that it displays a phenom of color changing abilities. View the video of this gorgeous Garnet sparkling on my hand at the event.
Some of Jean-Noel's favorites gemstones are Garnets, Tourmalines and Spinels, and he presented many in his relaxed style of open dialogue where he shared each gemstone's journey from rough to faceted in a variety of shapes and colors. He not only cares that his gemstones are ethically sourced, he is also focused on forming lasting relationships with the collectors of his creations and seeing their journey through to the end. Jean-Noel travels across the country connecting with collectors, jewelers, students, and other industry professionals in the way of the old school - a handshake and a smile.
I want give a very special thank you to the beautiful and talented Zoe Juanita Beatty, otherwise known as MakaZoe, who graciously hosted Jean-Noel and many guests in her studio while he completed his East Coast tour, making it possible for me to be able to experience his "wizardry" in person!
