Our story

In the realm of gemcutting, there are stories that transcend the brilliance of the gems themselves – stories that speak of resilience, determination, and the triumph of the human spirit. One such remarkable tale is that of Ben Kho, a Cambodian refugee who defied unimaginable odds to become a world-class gemcutter.

Born into a land of rich cultural heritage, Ben's early years were marked by the beauty and tranquility of Cambodia. However, his world was shattered by the devastating rise of the Khmer Rouge and the ensuing reign of the Pol Pot regime. The horrors of this period inflicted profound suffering upon the Cambodian people, and Ben found himself caught in the midst of a nightmarish struggle for survival.

Forced into labor camps and subjected to unspeakable atrocities, Ben endured years of unimaginable hardship. But amid the darkness, he clung to the flickering ember of hope, his indomitable spirit refusing to be extinguished. Escaping the clutches of the regime, he embarked on a perilous journey, seeking solace as a refugee in a foreign land.

Resettling in a new country, Ben rediscovered his passion for the art of gemcutting. With an unwavering determination to rebuild his life and embrace his innate talent, he dedicated himself to mastering the intricate craft. Through years of relentless practice, guided by an unyielding commitment to perfection, Ben transformed raw gemstones into mesmerizing works of art, each facet reflecting his resilience and triumph over adversity.

Today, Ben Kho stands among the world's most esteemed gemcutters, revered for his unparalleled skill and artistry. His creations embody the unwritten chapters of his extraordinary journey, capturing the essence of his Cambodian heritage while transcending borders and cultures.

Ben's story serves as a testament to the unbreakable human spirit and the transformative power of art. It is a reminder that amidst the darkest of circumstances, brilliance can emerge – both in the form of exquisitely cut gems and the resilient will of those who refuse to be defined by their past.

Join us as we delve into the world of Ben Kho, an extraordinary gemcutter whose remarkable journey continues to inspire and illuminate the world with every masterpiece he creates.

Picked with care

Every stone that comes through our doors has encountered an exhaustive approval process.  We only select clean, premium gemstones that we know our customers will love.  
Over the last 40 years, Ben has developed an exceptionally discerning eye for gemstones and their potential.  We are passionate about bringing out the best in a gem, whether that’s a new parcel of rough to cut and facet or recutting and restoring beauty to an unfulfilled stone.  Ben’s lapidary talent has been recognized by the American Gem Trade Association, and he has received 31 prestigious Spectrum Cutting Edge Awards.

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