Gem Cutting: Live at The Gem & Mineral Show UK

When you hold a sparkling gemstone in your hand, it’s easy to admire its beauty without thinking about the journey it has taken. From a rough, unassuming rock to a polished jewel that dazzles in the light, each gem carries within it both the story of the Earth and the skill of the craftsperson who shaped it.

Gemstone cutting - or lapidary - is an art form that combines science, patience, and creativity. And at The Gem & Mineral Show UK, visitors have the rare chance to see this process up close in our dedicated Demo Hub.

From Rough to Radiant

The journey begins with selecting the rough stone. Lapidaries look for clarity, colour, and shape to decide how best to cut and reveal the gem’s potential. Sometimes, what looks like an ordinary pebble hides extraordinary brilliance within.

Next comes faceting - the precise cutting of tiny, flat surfaces at carefully calculated angles. This is what allows light to bounce through the gem, producing the brilliance and sparkle of stones like topaz, garnet, or aquamarine. Other gems, such as opals or Whitby Jet, are often polished into smooth cabochons to highlight their unique textures and colours.

The Skill of the Lapidary

Gem cutting isn’t simply technical - it’s deeply artistic. A lapidary must balance the natural features of the stone with the desired outcome. Cut too much, and carat weight is lost. Cut too little, and brilliance is sacrificed. It’s a delicate balance between restraint and creativity.

At our shows, visitors can watch lapidaries at work. Seeing these gems cut live is a chance to witness history, geology, and artistry converging before your eyes.

Why Gem Cutting Matters Today

In a world of mass-produced jewellery, the art of gemstone cutting is a reminder of patience and authenticity. Each hand-cut gem is completely unique - a union of nature’s wonders and human skill.

For collectors and enthusiasts, watching the cutting process at The Gem & Mineral Show UK adds another dimension to your appreciation of gems. You’re not only admiring the finished sparkle but also connecting with the craftsmanship that made it possible.

Experience It at The Demo Hub

Our Demo Hub is where the magic happens. Expert artisans bring the lapidary process to life with live demonstrations of gem cutting, polishing, and silversmithing. Visitors can:

• Watch rough stones transformed into radiant gems.

• Learn essential techniques and tools of the trade.

• Even try your hand at cutting and polishing your very own stone.

It’s an interactive experience that makes you see every piece of jewellery or mineral specimen in a new light.

Next time you admire a gemstone at the show, you’ll know it carries not only millions of years of Earth’s history but also the careful craftsmanship of a lapidary. At The Gem & Mineral Show UK, you don’t just buy or admire gems - you witness the art that brings them to life.

Sponsored by Mayfair Gems

Mayfair Gems are a London-Based purveyor of quality gemstones, dedicated to sourcing and curating unique gems that possess timeless beauty. With a passion for quality, luxury and authenticity, Mayfair Gems celebrates the natural world by offering an exquisite selection of beautiful gemstones.

They bring incredible service to professionals & collectors alike, and this is backed by their deep industry knowledge. Their highly qualified Gemmologists will be on-hand throughout the show and will be delighted to share expertise & help buyers make informed choices.

At the London Gem & Mineral Show, Mayfair Gems will showcase stunning gemstones that will appeal to jewellers & jewellery designers as well as alluring and sought-after collectors’ gemstones. There really will be something for everyone!

Book your tickets to The London Gem & Mineral Show to expand your world of the Earth's natural treasures here.