Celebrated Gemstone Cutter Tom Munsteiner Dies

By Rob Bates | January 04, 2024

Tom Munsteiner, an award-winning gem cutter whose innovative work built on his family’s storied legacy, died on Dec. 28. He was 54.

Munsteiner was born in Bernkastel-Kues, Germany, into a family that had cut stones for three generations. His father, Bernd, considered the “Picasso of gems,” began teaching the craft to his son at a young age.

Tom eventually became a celebrated artist in his own right. Using techniques he developed, he won a long list of awards with bold creations that were inspired by the “poetic nature” of the minerals he worked with. A 2012 book, Munsteiner: The Young Generation, by Wilhelm Lindemann, showcased his collaborations with his jewelry-designer wife, Jutta.

*A Tom Munsteiner ring (photo courtesy of GemGenève)*

“I see the rough gemstone as my canvas,” Munsteiner told Katerina Perez in 2022. “Each stone is different, and depending on the color and size, they set certain borders for me. But within these borders, I can freely shape the gems to a beautiful new form. It’s like a discussion with the gem.”

When Art Jewelry Forum asked Munsteiner in 2105 what he liked most about cutting gemstones, he replied, “I am excited about the never-ending possibilities to design something new.”

In addition to his art, Munsteiner will be remembered for his “hardy laugh” and eagerness to share knowledge with the lapidary community, said a family statement.

Munsteiner is survived by Jutta; son Philipp, also a gem cutter; and parents Bernd and Hanne.

The family asks that friends share their memories of Tom during the upcoming Tucson gem shows, at Atelier Munsteiner‘s booths at GJX and the Tucson Fine Mineral Gallery.