Winter 2007 Loupe Highlights Baker, Crowningshield

From GIA, Carlsbad, Calif. - The latest issue of The Loupe: GIA World News marks the award-winning publication’s 60th year and is set to release early next month. The cover story is on the Institute’s newly appointed president, Donna Baker, who is the fifth in its 75 years, and first female president.Baker shares her vision to keep service – to students, Laboratory clients and the industry at large – the Institute’s number-one priority.

This issue also includes a five-page tribute to one of GIA’s founding fathers, G. Robert Crowningshield (1919–2006), which tells the story of his life’s work through historic photos and memorable anecdotes from friends and colleagues. Readers will find a list of Crowningshield’s major career contributions and learn how to make a donation in his memory to the Crowningshield Endowment for Research.

The Richard T. Liddicoat Library and Information Center is known as one of the industry’s largest repositories for gemological books and resources. In this issue of The Loupe, some of the Library’s most frequent visitors tell how it has become an invaluable tool in advancing their research.

Also in this issue, readers will find Senior Industry Analyst Russell Shor’s take on the growing number of synthetic colored diamonds on the market; see how an intimate setting and opportune location make GIA Los Angeles a great place to study; and learn what is in store for GIA graduates as the Alumni Association’s Continuing Education program continues to develop.

To sign-up for a free subscription to The Loupe: GIA World News, e-mail LoupeSub@gia.edu. Those attending the Tucson trade shows can also pick up a free copy of the Winter 2007 issue of The Loupe at the GIA booths (#1900 or on the Galleria Level) at the AGTA GemFair Jan. 31–Feb. 5 or at the Rio Grande Catalog in Motion show Feb. 2–5 in Tucson, Ariz.

About GIA

An independent nonprofit organization, the Gemological Institute of America (GIA) is recognized as the world's foremost authority in gemology. Established in 1931, GIA has translated its expert knowledge into the most respected gemological education available. In 1953, the Institute created the International Diamond Grading System™ which, today, is recognized by virtually every professional jeweler in the world. Through research, education, gemological laboratory services, and instrument development, the Institute is dedicated to ensuring the public trust in gems and jewelry by upholding the highest standards of integrity, academics, science, and professionalism. Media queries contact: Laura Simanton, 760-603-4112.