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GIA exhibit brings journal’s gem photos to life
Next month, a retrospective covering decades of jewelry photography in the GIA journal Gems & Gemology will go on display in Carlsbad. The pictures, and the pieces, will be there until December.

Carlsbad, Calif.--The Gemological Institute of America will launch a new exhibit next month showcasing the jewelry, gems, minerals and sculptures featured in Gems & Gemology over the years.
The exhibit, titled “The Beauty of Science: Gems & Gemology Celebrates 80 Years, Featuring the Artistry of Harold & Erica Van Pelt,” will feature 15 cases and more than 20 pieces displayed alongside their photographs.
It will open on May 19 at the GIA Museum in Carlsbad, Calif. and remain on display through December.
Pieces exhibited are on loan from various organizations and individuals, including the Smithsonian Institution, Harold and Erica Van Pelt, The Collector, Pala International and private collectors.
Highlights include The Maharaja of Indore necklace, shot in 1981; a Colombian emerald and diamond necklace with matching earrings designed by Jean Schlumberger for Tiffany & Co. in the 1950s; and an intense rubellite ring and necklace designed by Jeanne Larson.
“The Van Pelts’ photos for G&G captured the synergy between the science and beauty of gems, and were truly instrumental in drawing readers into the journal. From 1981 to 2009, their work graced the covers of 93 issues as well as many inside pages,” said Terri Ottaway, curator of the GIA Museum. “The beautiful gems and jewelry in this exhibit give context to the exquisite photos created by Harold and Erica Van Pelt.”
Gems & Gemology, the GIA’s quarterly scientific journal, is celebrating its 80th anniversary this year.
The Van Pelts played a major role in the evolution of the journal for more 25 years, the GIA said, providing high-quality photos to complement the gemological research being presented.
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