DaYan Gem Cube VII

DaYan Gem Cube VII

DaYan Gem Cube VII is the seventh puzzle in the Gem series, in which DaYan cuts a cube into shapes resembling cut gemstones. The Gem VII has 18 faces: 6 square and 12 hexagonal. Its shape resembles a truncated rhombic dodecahedron. This puzzle is made for solving and collecting. It is not a speedcube. The version on sale is black.

How this puzzle works

The square faces sit where the faces of a regular cube would be, and the hexagonal faces sit where its edges would be. This means you can turn both the faces and the edges, with the edges turning 180 degrees. One reviewer compares solving it to a Curvy Copter combined with the corners of a 3x3 cube. That is a useful hint if you already know similar edge-turning puzzles.

Turning and first impressions

The mechanism is much older than in current DaYan cubes, as the Gem VII has been on sale for more than ten years. User opinions are mixed. The hexagonal faces usually turn properly, though with slight catching. Out of the box, the square faces are noticeably stiffer and can get stuck, even after adjusting the tension. Some users say that after lubing and a few full solves the puzzle breaks in a lot, and the feel then resembles an old ZhanChi. So it is best to assume from the start that you will need to lube the puzzle and break it in a bit. It also helps to turn precisely, without forcing the layers.

Who is it for?

For collectors of unusual puzzles and for anyone who has already mastered the 3x3 and basic puzzles such as the Skewb or Pyraminx and is now looking for a new challenge to figure out on their own. It also makes a great addition to other cubes from the Gem series. If you are looking for a fast, smooth cube for timed practice, this one will probably disappoint you. It is also not the best choice as a child's first cube.

Specifications

• Manufacturer: DaYan
• Series: Gem Cube, model VII
• Type: shape mod puzzle, face and edge turning
• Number of faces: 18 (6 square, 12 hexagonal)
• Dimensions: approx. 9.7 x 9.5 x 8 cm
• Weight: approx. 170 g
• Colour: black