Fantasy cut gemstones are one of the most innovative concepts in contemporary jewelry design.
The term Fantasy was derived from the German word, Phantasie, meaning fancy. One of the founders and leaders of the Fantasy cut is Bernd Munsteiner, from the medieval town of Idar-Oberstein, a major cutting center in Germany. His creations are hand cut in fine quality ametrine, bi-colored tourmaline, citrine, rhodolite garnet, aquamarine, amethyst and tourmaline. Although they can be costly, each stone is a unique masterpiece which complements the lines and form of the jewelry in which it is set. Munsteiner treats the rough gem much like the sculptor treats bronze and marble.