Robert Crownington of Diamond Lore
Robert Crowningshield was a prominent figure in the field of gemology, particularly renowned for his expertise in diamonds. Born in 1907 in Massachusetts, USA, Crowningshield developed a passion for gemstones from a young age. He graduated from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) with a degree in chemistry in 1928.
Crowningshield began his career at the Gemological Institute of America (GIA) in 1938, shortly after its founding. At the GIA, he played a pivotal role in advancing the science of gemology, particularly in the identification and grading of diamonds.
One of Crowningshield's most significant contributions to the field was his work on diamond fluorescence. He discovered that certain diamonds exhibit fluorescence when exposed to ultraviolet light, a property that could be used to distinguish natural diamonds from synthetic ones. This discovery revolutionized diamond identification techniques and became a crucial tool in gemological laboratories worldwide.
Crowningshield also made significant contributions to the study of diamond color grading. He developed methods for categorizing and grading diamond colors, laying the groundwork for the modern diamond color grading system used in the industry today.
Throughout his career, Crowningshield authored numerous publications on gemology, including research papers and articles for industry journals. His expertise and dedication to the field earned him widespread recognition and respect among his peers.
In addition to his scientific contributions, Crowningshield played an important role in educating future generations of gemologists. He taught courses at the GIA and mentored aspiring gemologists, passing on his knowledge and passion for gemstones.
Robert Crowningshield's legacy continues to influence the field of gemology, particularly in the study of diamonds. His pioneering research and dedication to advancing the science of gemology have had a lasting impact on the industry, shaping the way diamonds are evaluated, graded, and appreciated.
Some of the publications that may feature Crowningshield's work or contributions include:
"Gems & Gemology" - This is the quarterly journal published by the Gemological Institute of America, which often features research articles, reports, and updates on gemological topics, including diamonds.
"The Journal of Gemmology" - Published by the Gemmological Association of Great Britain, this journal covers a wide range of topics related to gemstones, including diamond research and identification.
"Diamonds: The Antoinette Matlins Buying Guide" by Antoinette Matlins - While not authored by Crowningshield, this book is a comprehensive guide to buying diamonds and may reference his research and findings on diamond identification and grading.
"Diamonds and Diamond Grading" by Marcel Tolkowsky - Marcel Tolkowsky's work on diamond cutting and optics is foundational in the field, and his writings may include references to the research of others in the field, including Crowningshield.
While Crowningshield may not have authored standalone books, his contributions to the field of gemology are documented in various publications and are highly regarded within the industry.
Sean Ferguson
Crowningshield began his career at the Gemological Institute of America (GIA) in 1938, shortly after its founding. At the GIA, he played a pivotal role in advancing the science of gemology, particularly in the identification and grading of diamonds.
One of Crowningshield's most significant contributions to the field was his work on diamond fluorescence. He discovered that certain diamonds exhibit fluorescence when exposed to ultraviolet light, a property that could be used to distinguish natural diamonds from synthetic ones. This discovery revolutionized diamond identification techniques and became a crucial tool in gemological laboratories worldwide.
Crowningshield also made significant contributions to the study of diamond color grading. He developed methods for categorizing and grading diamond colors, laying the groundwork for the modern diamond color grading system used in the industry today.
Throughout his career, Crowningshield authored numerous publications on gemology, including research papers and articles for industry journals. His expertise and dedication to the field earned him widespread recognition and respect among his peers.
In addition to his scientific contributions, Crowningshield played an important role in educating future generations of gemologists. He taught courses at the GIA and mentored aspiring gemologists, passing on his knowledge and passion for gemstones.
Robert Crowningshield's legacy continues to influence the field of gemology, particularly in the study of diamonds. His pioneering research and dedication to advancing the science of gemology have had a lasting impact on the industry, shaping the way diamonds are evaluated, graded, and appreciated.
Some of the publications that may feature Crowningshield's work or contributions include:
"Gems & Gemology" - This is the quarterly journal published by the Gemological Institute of America, which often features research articles, reports, and updates on gemological topics, including diamonds.
"The Journal of Gemmology" - Published by the Gemmological Association of Great Britain, this journal covers a wide range of topics related to gemstones, including diamond research and identification.
"Diamonds: The Antoinette Matlins Buying Guide" by Antoinette Matlins - While not authored by Crowningshield, this book is a comprehensive guide to buying diamonds and may reference his research and findings on diamond identification and grading.
"Diamonds and Diamond Grading" by Marcel Tolkowsky - Marcel Tolkowsky's work on diamond cutting and optics is foundational in the field, and his writings may include references to the research of others in the field, including Crowningshield.
While Crowningshield may not have authored standalone books, his contributions to the field of gemology are documented in various publications and are highly regarded within the industry.
Sean Ferguson