CrimeOct 07, 2025
Men Who Posed as Utility Workers Found Guilty in Jeweler’s MurderCarlos Jose Hernandez and Joshua Zuazo face life in prison for the October 2024 murder of 72-year-old Detroit-area jeweler Hussein Murray.
GradingJan 05, 2021
William Hanneman, a Gemologist Who Made His Field Affordable, Dies at 93
A pillar of the community, he used his chemistry degree and analytical mind to teach himself gemology and then create a line of affordable instruments.
Dr. William Hanneman, known for his many contributions to gemology including creating a line of affordable instruments, died last month at the age of 93. He is pictured here at left with his friend Alan Hodgkinson, also an award-winning gemologist.
Monterey, Calif.—Dr. Walter William Hanneman, the gemologist known for sharing his knowledge and helping make gemology accessible to all, died Dec. 12 at his home in California.
He was 93.
Hanneman, who was known as Dr. Bill, received his undergraduate degree from the University of Illinois, Urbana-Champaign and his Ph.D. in organic chemistry at the University of Nebraska, Lincoln.
He then worked as a research analytical chemist for several major corporations, including the DuPont Research Lab, the Standard Oil/Chevron Refiner, and the Kaiser Center for Technology.
His father was an avid lapidarist and introduced Hanneman to gems and minerals at a young age, kicking off a lifelong hobby of gemology, according to his online obituary.
Hanneman’s early endeavors in education would later lead to a mission to make gemology affordable to anyone who was interested.
In the mid-1960s, he decided he wanted to learn gemstone identification.
But, after being told about the prerequisite classes and their associated costs, Hanneman rejected that path, opting instead to teach himself through popular books on the topic and his advanced degrees in chemistry.
He felt his 40 years of experience qualified him to examine gemology from perspectives far different from those of the traditional industry schools and called himself the world’s foremost S.O.G.—Self Ordained Gemologist.
As a champion of aspiring gemological students, Hanneman believed anyone with an interest in learning about gems should have the opportunity to do so.
Using his analytical mind and chemistry background, he set out to create an alternative and affordable path to gem identification, creating his own line of instruments under his name, Hanneman Gemological Instruments.
These instruments are still used worldwide.
Hanneman also authored numerous articles and books in his efforts to make gemological information accessible, including “Pragmatic Spectroscopy for Gemologists,” “Diamond Cut Grading Simplified,” “Naming Gem Garnets,” and his signature book, “Guide to Affordable Gemology.”
He also shared his knowledge openly through lectures, seminars and workshops, inspiring generations of gemologists and gemological enthusiasts.
In a Facebook post, gemologist and author Antoinette Matlins called him a “brilliant gemologist, a man who gladly shared of his knowledge and talent, a warm supporter of the Accredited Gemologists Association—and how many of us have the little practical gem tools he created and gave to AGA members—and simply a wonderful, talented, loving, thoughtful man who loved life and did what he loved throughout his own.”
The AGA honored Hanneman in 2018 with its Antonio C. Bonanno Award for Excellence in Gemology, and the International Society of Appraisers gave him its Industry Service Award for contributing to the advancement of the appraisal profession.
He was 93.
Hanneman, who was known as Dr. Bill, received his undergraduate degree from the University of Illinois, Urbana-Champaign and his Ph.D. in organic chemistry at the University of Nebraska, Lincoln.
He then worked as a research analytical chemist for several major corporations, including the DuPont Research Lab, the Standard Oil/Chevron Refiner, and the Kaiser Center for Technology.
His father was an avid lapidarist and introduced Hanneman to gems and minerals at a young age, kicking off a lifelong hobby of gemology, according to his online obituary.
Hanneman’s early endeavors in education would later lead to a mission to make gemology affordable to anyone who was interested.
In the mid-1960s, he decided he wanted to learn gemstone identification.
But, after being told about the prerequisite classes and their associated costs, Hanneman rejected that path, opting instead to teach himself through popular books on the topic and his advanced degrees in chemistry.
He felt his 40 years of experience qualified him to examine gemology from perspectives far different from those of the traditional industry schools and called himself the world’s foremost S.O.G.—Self Ordained Gemologist.
As a champion of aspiring gemological students, Hanneman believed anyone with an interest in learning about gems should have the opportunity to do so.
Using his analytical mind and chemistry background, he set out to create an alternative and affordable path to gem identification, creating his own line of instruments under his name, Hanneman Gemological Instruments.
These instruments are still used worldwide.
Hanneman also authored numerous articles and books in his efforts to make gemological information accessible, including “Pragmatic Spectroscopy for Gemologists,” “Diamond Cut Grading Simplified,” “Naming Gem Garnets,” and his signature book, “Guide to Affordable Gemology.”
He also shared his knowledge openly through lectures, seminars and workshops, inspiring generations of gemologists and gemological enthusiasts.
In a Facebook post, gemologist and author Antoinette Matlins called him a “brilliant gemologist, a man who gladly shared of his knowledge and talent, a warm supporter of the Accredited Gemologists Association—and how many of us have the little practical gem tools he created and gave to AGA members—and simply a wonderful, talented, loving, thoughtful man who loved life and did what he loved throughout his own.”
The AGA honored Hanneman in 2018 with its Antonio C. Bonanno Award for Excellence in Gemology, and the International Society of Appraisers gave him its Industry Service Award for contributing to the advancement of the appraisal profession.
“The AGA was deeply saddened to hear of the passing of Dr. William Hanneman, recipient of the Antonio C. Bonanno Award for Excellence in Gemology,” Donna Hawrelko, former AGA president and close friend of Hanneman, said on behalf of the AGA in a statement sent to National Jeweler.
“Dr. Bill, as he was affectionately known, was a generous, brilliant scientist, author, and inventor of affordable equipment for the gemmologist. (He) was always willing to share his vast knowledge with students, gemologists, and scientists alike. He will be deeply missed by everyone who had the privilege of knowing him.”
Outside of gemology, Hanneman was an avid fly fisherman, an area in which he also made contributions.
He created the “Hanneman Common Cents System,” an objective system for the relative measurement of rod action, power, and frequency, which was published in RodMaker Magazine and Tenkara Angler magazine.
He also wrote a book called “What Trout Actually See.”
Hanneman was preceded in death by his wife of 65 years, Margaret Marie (Lynch) Hanneman; his parents; his sister, Katharine Hanneman Schoenberger; niece Susan Schoenberger Spencer; and two sons-in-law, Cliff Tipton and Steve Jack.
He is survived by his four children: Kathleen, Bill, Patricia, and Judith (Peter); his granddaughter Deirdre (Shane); three great-grandchildren, Shane, Kylie, and Tyler; niece Barbara; and nephew Peter.
In keeping with his wishes, no service is planned. Rather, his family encourages raising a glass to toast a life well lived.
“Dr. Bill, as he was affectionately known, was a generous, brilliant scientist, author, and inventor of affordable equipment for the gemmologist. (He) was always willing to share his vast knowledge with students, gemologists, and scientists alike. He will be deeply missed by everyone who had the privilege of knowing him.”
Outside of gemology, Hanneman was an avid fly fisherman, an area in which he also made contributions.
He created the “Hanneman Common Cents System,” an objective system for the relative measurement of rod action, power, and frequency, which was published in RodMaker Magazine and Tenkara Angler magazine.
He also wrote a book called “What Trout Actually See.”
Hanneman was preceded in death by his wife of 65 years, Margaret Marie (Lynch) Hanneman; his parents; his sister, Katharine Hanneman Schoenberger; niece Susan Schoenberger Spencer; and two sons-in-law, Cliff Tipton and Steve Jack.
He is survived by his four children: Kathleen, Bill, Patricia, and Judith (Peter); his granddaughter Deirdre (Shane); three great-grandchildren, Shane, Kylie, and Tyler; niece Barbara; and nephew Peter.
In keeping with his wishes, no service is planned. Rather, his family encourages raising a glass to toast a life well lived.
More on Grading
The Latest
CollectionsOct 07, 2025
Jessica McCormack Looks to Sea Spirits for ‘Tempest’ CollectionThe brand’s first high jewelry collection, “Tempest” plays with movement while calling to mind the folklore of the sea.
SourcingOct 07, 2025
Columbia Gem House Announces ‘Opals for Outback Heroes’ FundraiserProceeds from its jewelry raffle will go to a volunteer-run fire and rescue group in the Lightning Ridge area of New South Wales, Australia.
Brought to you by
JA New York Fall Is Right Around the CornerThe upcoming show provides savvy retailers with the opportunity to stock their cases with best sellers in advance of the holiday season.
MajorsOct 07, 2025
Stuller Names Its S.E.R.V.E Stars for 2025Stuller said the recipients embody the company’s core values, which include community participation and personal and professional growth.
Weekly QuizOct 02, 2025
This Week’s QuizTest your jewelry news knowledge by answering these questions.
WatchesOct 06, 2025
This Fall, Citizen’s Forecast Calls for RainCitizen’s new “Rainell” women’s watch has a raindrop-shaped case and is available with a silver-, gold-, purple-, or green-colored dial.
AuctionsOct 06, 2025
The ‘Rolex That Made Rolex’ Heads to Auction at Sotheby’s The “Mercedes Gleitze Rolex Oyster,” named for the British endurance swimmer who made it famous, will go up for sale next month.
SourcingOct 06, 2025
SoCal 24 Karat Club Integrates Into Diamond Club West CoastMembers of the Jewelers 24 Karat Club of Southern California will gain access to expanded services, resources, and connections, DCWC said.
TrendsOct 03, 2025
Selena Gomez, Benny Blanco Tie the Knot Wearing Diamonds, White MetalsGomez’s jewelry included Tiffany & Co. drop-style earrings while Blanco stacked diamonds from Jacob & Co. on his wrist.
TrendsOct 03, 2025
Piece of the Week: Kallati’s Pink Sapphire RingTaylor Swift flaunts an Elizabeth Taylor-esque gemstone in promo for her new album, “The Life of a Showgirl.”
CollectionsOct 02, 2025
Boucheron Debuts Cuffs Crafted With 3D-Printed SandIts “Quantre Sand” capsule was made using a 3D sand printing technique borrowed from the automotive and aeronautics industries.
CrimeOct 02, 2025
$1M in Jewelry Stolen in Northern California Smash and Grab Four individuals have been charged in the “takeover-style” robbery of Heller Jewelers last month, and additional charges are expected.
MajorsOct 02, 2025
Neil Lane Jewelry Exhibition Coming to Toledo Museum of Art“Radiance and Reverie” will showcase more than 150 jewels from Lane’s personal collection by Tiffany & Co., Cartier, and more.
TrendsOct 02, 2025
Amanda’s Style File: October’s Colorful ShowThe month’s birthstones, tourmaline and opal, complement the palette of autumn.
ColumnistsOct 01, 2025
Peter Smith: Why Vendor Success Starts With Self-ReflectionSmith shares the importance of looking at your company with openness and honesty to identify opportunities you may be missing.
EditorsOct 01, 2025
Playing Favorites: The Best Jewelry From VicenzaoroAssociate Editor Natalie Francisco visited Italy to spot jewelry trends at the September Vicenzaoro show and share her top finds.
SurveysOct 01, 2025
Consumer Confidence Hits 5-Month Low in September Respondents were concerned about job availability and rising prices.
SourcingOct 01, 2025
Gemfields’ H1 Revenue Falls 47%Its latest interim financials revealed a challenging first half due in part to production troubles at its mines.
MajorsSep 30, 2025
Pandora CEO to Retire in 2026, Hand Reins to CMO Alexander Lacik has led Pandora since 2019. Berta de Pablos-Barbier will succeed him, the first woman to head the company.
CrimeSep 30, 2025
2 Suspects Charged in $300K Sleight-of-Hand Jewelry Store ScamTwo men allegedly used counterfeit bills to purchase luxury watches and jewelry from a North Carolina jeweler.
CollectionsSep 30, 2025
Billie Eilish, Finneas Partner with John HardyThe “Lovestruck” collection, designed with the Academy and Grammy award-winning siblings, is the brand’s first lab-grown diamond offering.
IndependentsSep 30, 2025
Spinelli Kilcollin Announces Residency in DallasThe brand, celebrating its 15th anniversary, has popped up at Market, a luxury fashion destination in Highland Park Village.
IndependentsSep 29, 2025
Nina Pugliese, Longtime Henne Jewelers Employee, Dies at 65She was remembered as a creative and generous woman of faith, who also had a sweet tooth.
TrendsSep 29, 2025
Amanda’s Style File: Ear FocusMove over neck mess, the ear story is the way to make a layering statement today.
IndependentsSep 29, 2025
Mark Henry Jewelry to Debut in CanadaThe New York-based brand is set to launch a limited-time offering for the holiday season at Holt Renfrew in Toronto.
MajorsSep 29, 2025
Overnight Releases New Bridal CatalogThe “Volume 7” bridal catalog features best-selling engagement rings, trending styles, and a new section highlighting anniversary bands.
