Tom & Jutta Munsteiner

Lapidarist

Facets of fantasy

Tom is the fourth generation of his family to cut gemstones
He and wife Jutta create jewellery using precious gems
Tradition is the foundation for their work

It was a paradigm shift in the world of gemstone cutting when Bernd Munsteiner introduced the so-called 'fantasy cut'. Until then, it had been the primary task of a lapidary to cut a gemstone to ideal proportions while preserving as much of its value as possible. However, the fantasy cut broke free from the strict traditions developed over centuries by freely cutting away the back of a gemstone to unveil a marvellous shine on the front. What was once a harshly critiqued innovation has by now become the new standard for exquisite gemstone cutting. The family legacy is preserved and carried on in the fourth generation by Tom Munsteiner – the son of Bernd Munsteiner – and his wife, goldsmith Jutta Munsteiner, who are together creating exceptional pieces of jewellery.

Interview

Where does your fascination for gemstones come from?: Tom: The minerals and crystals have been naturally created over millions of years and it is our privilege to give them a whole new shape and meaning through the process of cutting. There's a vast variety of gemstones, each with different properties and characteristics, giving endless possibilities for creation.
What inspires your work?: Jutta: Our workshop is surrounded by beautiful forests with lots of different trees and rich colours, so nature is a source of inspiration. Tom: Urban landscapes can also provide a lot of inspiration. You have to go through life with your eyes open and you will often find inspiration unexpectedly.
What does tradition mean to you?: Jutta: The maxim I formulated for myself is to hold on to what has been tried and tested but at the same time be openminded and on the lookout for new possibilities that are emerging. One should never be afraid of experimenting with new ideas.
Will there still be lapidaries in 2050?: Tom: Unfortunately, the craft of gemstone cutting is not very widespread and there is a lack of young people who want to continue the tradition. It is already a rare profession, thus the threat of vanishing exists.

Tom & Jutta Munsteiner are expert artisans: they began their career in 1985