Phil: Cabochon Master

Phil's last name not shown for security reasons.

Phil is one of those artist who have a very practical approach towards their work of art. When I was learning Faceting, he told me (and I have not forgotten), to use good quality gemstones even though I am just learning. Because good quality material will result in a gem, which I can really use rather than throw away after a while. Phil likes to cabochon and then he makes jewelry with it, thus making it usable.

In the  pictures below see Phil showing off his cab at the Bendigo Gem show Sept 2004. I tried to shoot him together with his girl friend but she shied away. Both of them are seen in almost every gem show in Victoria.

I tried to take photos of his beautiful piece of jade but my hand were shaking and the light was not very good that is why you may not be able to see the real beauty of the artifact.

Phil is the Secretary of Nunawading & District Lapidary Club (in Melbourne, Victoria). He is my mentor at the club and a good friend. He teaches short courses in Silver Jewelry Making at the club. I did the introductory course, where he taught us how to make a Silver ring. I can not show you the photo of that ring since I sent the ring as a gift to my father in Pakistan. However Phil does not conduct cabochon courses, which is a shame.

As a person Phil is genuine down to earth guy. Extremely polite, helpful and easy going. He is plumber by profession. You would find at the club most of his free time.