Meet the Team
Michael and Kim share a passion for art, culinary pursuits, canine companionship, travel, and cultivating new friendships.
Michael Holmes
Instructor and co-owner
he/him
Michael taught as a school teacher and motorcycle safety instructor before he fell in love with gems. We tailor each Oak and Stone class to a student's unique learning style, emphasizing that there isn't just one "right" way to approach gem cutting challenges. Michael also avidly organizes within the gemcutting community, designs graphics for several gem professionals, and serves as a US Faceters Guild board member.
Kim Nguyen
Co-owner and teaching assistant
she/her
Kim combines her visual arts training and love for complex problem-solving in her product design career. Inspired by the close-knit and welcoming faceting community, she supports Oak & Stone events and operations to foster its growth and provides resources for skill development. To further assist Oak & Stone students in achieving their goals, Kim currently enrolls in the GIA Jewelry Essentials program. A versatile artist, she expresses interests ranging from sewing and illustration to experimenting in screen printing and the lapidary arts.
Background
Partners Michael Holmes and Kim Nguyen realized their vision for The Oak & Stone School of American Gemcutting. They share a deep passion for community-building and preserving traditional crafts.
Each cut their first gemstones over a decade ago. Michael continued his journey into faceting, seeking relatable ways to hone his skills. Immersed in the field, he actively trained, eventually taught alongside renowned gemcutters, collaborated with jewelers globally, and contributed to several instructional books on faceting. Now an invaluable voice and familiar friend to the gemcutting community, Michael passionately gives back and shares his knowledge and experiences.
Michael and Kim established the Oak & Stone School in 2025. They commit to offering personalized and supportive gemcutting education. An equipment partnership with Facetron gives students an empowering experience mastering this intricate art. They create tangible beauty while fostering a lifelong appreciation for the craft. Join us at Oak & Stone and embark on your own rewarding journey into the world of gemcutting.
Photo: Evening meal and fireside chats at Oak & Stone during the inaugural Meetpoint Meetup Weekend in Berks County (October 2024)
