aspen_gia_certified_diamonds_engagement_ringsAs a member of the Aspen Chamber of Commerce and the Aspen community at large, I value what my family and I have here. It is such a spectacular part of the country. I’ve travelled from Bangkok to the DRC, and have lived in many places across the country and throughout Europe. While studying to become a Graduate Gemologist from the Gemological Institute of America (GIA) I lived in Los Angeles. I went to High School in South Carolina and spent recent years in the BWI, to name but a few.

All this to say that I value community, however brief the stay within it may be. I appreciate the connections we make throughout our lives and see how, together, we make a difference. I treasure the relationships, both personal and professional, developed through the years and see how they have formed me as the artist I am today.

Aspen Business Organizations

Aspen Chamber   www.aspenchamber.org
Better Business Bureau  www.wynco.bbb.org

Graduate of the Gemological Institute of America

As a Graduate Gemologist from the esteemed Gemological Institute of America (GIA), I know first-hand the essential knowledge this organization imparts to professionals throughout the jewelry industry.  In 1989, when I attended classes at their headquarters in Los Angeles, CA , GIA had just opened a GIA school in Korea, with others that soon followed in Europe, Asia and India.  It has been a pleasure to continue in the fine tradition of my training at GIA.

Gemological Institute of America 

In 1931, Robert M. Shipley established the Gemological Institute of America (GIA)  and opened the first U.S. gemological laboratory in Los Angeles, California. See more about the GIA through the years using the interactive timeline at their website.

From the GIA website: “A Tradition of Science and Education: Established in 1931, GIA is the world’s foremost authority on diamonds, colored stones, and pearls. A public benefit, nonprofit institute, GIA is the leading source of knowledge, standards, and education in gems and jewelry. Students around the globe turn to GIA for the knowledge, skills, and credentials that launch successful gem and jewelry careers. The world leader in gemological research, GIA’s breakthrough discoveries deepen our understanding of gemstones and the world. Through research, education, and unbiased gem grading and analysis, GIA strives to protect the gem and jewelry buying public by setting global quality standards.”