Tony, I too am a stone cutter, but also make jewelry. Your statements
enhance the great divide that exists between jewelers and lapidaries.
Jewelers use many techniques to make their wares as lapidaries use
many techniques to enhance their stones. My goal is to lessen that
divide, not widen it. The method of backing stones is as acceptable
as the method of stabilizing turquoise. There is no difference.
Neither one tries to cheapen their product, both try to enhance it.
What is important is disclosure to the customer.
Gerry Galarneau