Crystal Cut by Caleb Wiles

Effect: Crystal Cut

The “Crystal Cut” is a card manipulation that presents as a seemingly impossible cut of a deck of cards. To the audience, it appears that a single card is cleanly divided into two, with each half appearing to be a separate card. The visual effect is intended to be striking and memorable, resembling the splitting of a crystal.

Full Details

The “Crystal Cut” is a variation of the Double Undercut, a classic card sleight. However, Caleb Wiles’s version, as presented in “High Spots,” significantly alters the presentation and execution to create a more visually deceptive outcome. Instead of simply passing the deck through the hands, the performer uses a specific hand position and subtle movements to create the illusion of a complete division. The card is effectively “split” beneath the hands, with each portion appearing as a distinct card to the spectator. The book highlights that this version is a “reimagining” of the Double Undercut.

Who Should Consider the Trick

This trick is suitable for magicians of varying experience levels. The video notes that “High Spots” contains “pro-level magic that anyone can do.” While the underlying technique is based on a well-established sleight, Wiles’s adaptation is presented as being particularly visually appealing and easy to learn. It’s recommended for magicians who appreciate visually impressive card effects and are interested in adding a unique element to their repertoire. Magicians seeking a trick that can be performed with confidence and impact will find this a valuable addition.

Information on How Difficult It Is to Perform

The “Crystal Cut” is described as being relatively easy to learn, though it requires precise hand movements and a good understanding of the Double Undercut. The video emphasizes that the routines within “High Spots” are “commercial enough for pros,” suggesting a level of polish and presentation is achievable even for experienced performers. The key to success lies in mastering the hand position and the subtle shifts required to create the illusion of a clean cut. It’s not a trick that can be learned in a single viewing, but with practice, it can be performed smoothly and convincingly.

What Magicians Say

MurphysMagicSupplies notes that Caleb Wiles’s “ReSwindled” variation of Paul Harris’s “Reset” is considered the “certified best variation.” The video states, “You’ll also learn Caleb’s Crystal cut… it looks cool it looks interesting and I think you’re going to want to add it to your work.” The creator also highlights that “Blackjack Be Quick,” another routine from the book, is a “deceptive uh deceptive Blackjack demonstration.” Furthermore, “26!,” described as “the trick that many people said was the best trick of the Book,” is included. The video emphasizes that “High Spots” is a “small but dense” book, packed with valuable routines.