Queen Elizabeth ascended the throne in February 1952, more than 60 years ago. When she was coronated a year later, she wore the ultimate symbol of royal authority – the Imperial State Crown.
This is the quintessential crown. Set with 2868 diamonds in silver mounts, it has an open work gold frame and is fitted inside with a purple velvet cap and ermine fur headband. The jewels mounted on the frame are breathtaking. (more…)
Sometimes the search for the perfect diamond grows into something deeper—a lasting interest in the jewelry and gems. If that’s happened to you, discover how GIA can guide your path toward a Graduate Gemologist (G.G.) or Accredited Jewelry Professional (A.J.P.) diploma, courses in gemology and jewelry arts, and a career in the industry. (more…)
My grandfather was a client of GIA’s back in the 50s and early 60s. He died only a few years after I was born, but at his company in Long Island City, New York, where both my mother and father continued to work, I grew up surrounded by the tools of an amateur gemologist—which only stopped gathering dust when my sister and I handled them (secretly, so mom wouldn’t yell). (more…)
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