Dr. John W. Valley Retires from GIA Board of Governors
To honor his legacy, GIA has set up a scholarship in his name.
Dr. John W. Valley, who has served on the board since 2014, retired following the board’s annual meeting earlier this month.
Valley is a geoscientist, a Charles R. Van Hise Distinguished Professor, and the former chair of the Department of Geoscience at the University of Wisconsin–Madison.
He is known for his research in mineralogy, geochemistry, petrology, and other Earth sciences.
Valley also led “pioneering studies” of zircon, the oldest gem, said GIA, and his work showed that habitable conditions and oceans existed on Earth earlier than scientists had previously thought.
He is a fellow of seven prestigious professional societies, a past-president of the Mineralogical Society of America, and a member of the National Academy of Sciences.
Valley has penned more than 400 articles and held editorial positions for several scientific journals.
In 2017, fellow scientists honored Valley’s work by naming a newly discovered mineral species, valleyite, after him.
GIA has established a scholarship in Valley’s name to honor him.
The merit-based scholarship offers full tuition for one student to enroll in the GIA Graduate Gemologist program at the Carlsbad campus in 2024.
It is available to U.S. citizens and permanent residents.
Similar scholarships have been set up to recognize past governors Thomas Insley, Dione Kenyon, Elliot Tannenbaum and Dr. Barbara Sawrey, all of whom retired from the board in 2022.
“Just as John’s extensive research and teaching left an indelible mark on the scientific community, his wise counsel and keen scientific insight leave a lasting legacy at GIA,” said Susan Jacques, GIA president, CEO and governor.
“With his remarkable academic background, he helped advance the institute’s research programs to the point where, today, GIA's diamond research ranks with those of the top institutions in the world.”
The Latest
Wheat Ridge, Colorado police took a 50-year-old man into custody Wednesday following a two-month search.
PGI partnered with four new and seven returning designers for its annual platinum capsule collection.
Nicolosi, president and CEO of The Kingswood Company, previously sat on WJA’s board from 2011 to 2018.
Meet Ben Claus—grand prize winner of For the Love of Jewelers 2023 Fall Design Challenge.
Karina Brez’s race-ready piece is a sophisticated nod to the horse-rider relationship.
The men are allegedly responsible for stealing millions in jewelry and other valuables in 43 burglaries in 25 towns across Massachusetts.
“Horizon” invites individuals to explore the limitless possibilities that lie ahead, said the brand.
With Ho Brothers, you can unlock your brand's true potential and offer customers the personalized jewelry experiences they desire.
The jeweler credits its recent “Be Love” campaign and ongoing brand revamp for its 17 percent jump in sales.
The co-founder of Lewis Jewelers was also the longtime mayor of the city of Moore.
Elvis Presley gifted this circa 1967 gold and diamond watch to Dodie Marshall, his co-star in “Easy Come, Easy Go.”
Concerns about rising prices, politics, and global conflicts continue to dampen consumer outlook.
May’s birthstone is beloved for its rich green hue and its versatility.
Jacqui Larsson joins Opsydia with nearly two decades of experience in the industry.
Last month in Dallas, David Walton pushed another jeweler, David Ettinger, who later died.
The “Tiffany Céleste” collection reimagines designer Jean Schlumberger’s interpretations of the universe.
The brand also created a 100-carat lab-grown diamond necklace in honor of its centennial.
Tim Schlick has been promoted from his previous position as COO.
It’s the second year for the event, slated to take place in October in Toronto.
Supplier Spotlight Sponsored by GIA
Sales will be paused while the relocation takes place over the next few months.
“SIS x MISA Denim and Diamonds” is a collaboration between the designer and celebrity stylist Misa Hylton.
The retailer is moving to a newly designed space in the same shopping center.
Gifts that are unique and thoughtful are top of mind this year, according to the annual survey.
The necklace is featured in the brand’s “Rebel Heart” campaign starring Adam Levine and Behati Prinsloo.
The two organizations will host a joint event, “Converge,” in September 2025.