About Us - Roger Dery Gem Design

Precision Gem Cutter

A Roger Dery gemstone is instantly recognizable because of its distinctive combination of facets, perfection in polish, and heartfelt craftsmanship. With decades of experience, Roger is a world-renowned and award-winning precision flat faceter who draws on a comprehensive knowledge of traditional gem cutting techniques, modern optics, and the inherent physical properties of each gem to create true works of art.

39,000	Hours of Faceting
14,500	Gems Faceted
580	Mines Visited
41	Years in the Gem Business
41	Trips to Africa

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Holistic Sourcing™

Roger has a unique approach to sourcing gems. He is committed to Holistic Sourcing, purchasing gems in a way that supports the local community and encourages the success of the miners and their families. Rather than relying on what the marketplace offers, Roger travels directly to the mines where rough gemstones are found. His focus is dedicated to East Africa, working with Gem Legacy to impact artisanal colored gemstone mining communities for success and growth.

THE STORY OF GEM LEGACY VIDEO

The Journey of a Gemstone

Roger, Gem Curator™

My philosophy is that you can only work with what God gives you. I know I am simply a steward of the gemstones found in the earth.

Ginger, Color Consultant

Color brings out the best in our appearance and makes us come alive. When we adorn ourselves with color, it can embody who we are in a singularly unique way.

Rachel, Gem Storyteller™

Gems have a story to tell us, just like everything else in the nature that surrounds us. My passion is sharing the story of the mines, people, communities, and countries where gems are found.

Bjorn, Gem Miner

As a 2nd generation Tanzanite miner, my passion is bringing the gems to light and sharing the story of their humble beginnings with the world.

At the Source

After more than 40 sourcing trips to East Africa, Roger has found that, by working directly with miners, more gemstone profit remains in local communities, families are able to invest in education, and livelihoods and futures are boosted for generations. Roger puts relationships before profit to ensure that his purchases leave a holistically positive impact. A donation is made to Gem Legacy in honor of every gem purchased.

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REINVESTING AT THE SOURCE

Roger is committed to using the power of gemstones to change lives and impact the world, starting with the men and women who unearth them. His recent work includes organizing toolkits for miners, delivery of food, PPE and COVID-19 sanitary equipment for mining communities, and organizing a school lunch program for the children of miners. Roger also has a special place in his heart for gemological and faceting education and supports several schools and scholarships.

LEARN MORE ABOUT GEM LEGACY

GEM LEGACY

Gem Legacy, the 501(c)3 nonprofit philanthropic partner of Roger Dery Gem Design, was founded in 2018 by Roger. Gem Legacy supports vocational training, entrepreneurship, and community development in East African artisanal mining communities. Their vision is to see thriving, educated, and successful mining communities all over East Africa. A donation is made to Gem Legacy in honor of every gem purchased.