Cutting with Intention: A Conversation with Jenna Sloane

GIA Alumni Collective San Diego Chapter invites you to dive into the world of precision gemstone cutting, with a presentation by lapidarist Jenna Sloane (SloaneStonez). Following her presentation there will be a hands-on opportunity to loupe both Jenna’s precision cut gemstones alongside commercial cut stones in order to get a better understanding on how to assess cut and polish quality while at gem shows or working in the trade.

Some topics she may cover include: How does Precision Cutting differ from Commercial Cutting? What details should you check for when purchasing cut gems How do you go about confidently purchasing gemstones?

Drinks and snacks will be provided.

IMPORTANT NOTE:

We are required to provide GIA’s Security Team with a complete list of attendees before our event. Please purchase tickets individually, to ensure we have each attendee's first and last name. GIA’s Security Team will verify your government issued ID matches our last of attendees upon your arrival. Thank you for your cooperation!

About the Artist:

Jenna Sloane is a California-based lapidarist, specializing in uniquely cut colored gemstones. With a background in Industrial Design from Lawrence Technological University’s College of Architecture and Design, Jenna brings a technical and artistic perspective to the craft of gem cutting. She began cutting gemstones in 2021 and has since developed her practice through trial and error, formal lapidary training, and gemological studies at the Gemological Institute of America. Her work focuses on gemstones including sapphire, spinel, tourmaline, and zircon.

Jenna’s approach to lapidary design begins with the individual characteristics of each piece of rough. Rather than following predetermined shapes, she considers a stone’s color, clarity, pleochroism, and natural crystal shape to develop cuts that reveal its unique potential. Drawing on her design background, she explores the relationship between geometry, light, and material to create distinctive, one-of-a-kind gemstones. Her design-driven approach has earned recognition within the jewelry industry, including a feature in Rapaport Magazine highlighting her emerging work and influence in contemporary lapidary design.

Contact the GIA Alumni Collective San Diego Chapter with any questions!

Instagram: @GiaAlumniSD

Email: GiaAlumniSD@gmail.com