If you’d like to work with gem carvings or specialty cut stones, these are the artists whose names come up most often when top cutters are discussed. Check their websites to see the wide range of styles available. Some of these cutters will take commissions; others will not.

These are established names and their gemstones will be priced accordingly. Also cruise the aisles of gem shows to find young carvers and cutters just beginning to make their marks on the industry. It might be the beginning of a beautiful relationship.

• Atelier Tom Munsteiner—Bernd, Tom, Jutta. Germany. While there have always been gem carvers and cutters willing to push the envelope, Bernd Munsteiner practically single-handedly set the lapidary world ablaze with his fantasy cuts in the 1970s. Largely retired now, his son, Tom, and daughter-in-law, Jutta, carry on his tradition.
• Steve Walters. California.
• Sherris Cottier Shank. Michigan.
• Lawrence Stoller. Oregon.
• Glenn Lehrer. California.
• Thomas McPhee. British Columbia, Canada.
• Michael Dyber. New Hampshire.
• Deborah Wilson. British Columbia, Canada.
• Bart Curren. Washington.
• Larry Woods. Texas.
• Bruce Barlow. Arizona.
• John Heusler. Missouri.