SurveysOct 01, 2026
Rolex Ranks Among Most Recommended Brands in US, Survey Says YouGov’s 2026 U.S. Most Recommended Brands report’s out, and a fast-fashion giant is sitting at No. 1 while Rolex is just shy of the top 5.
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.
Editors' Picks
Sponsored by
“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
TrendsOct 01, 2026
Carolina Hurricanes’ Championship Ring Reveals Hidden Hockey Puck PendantThe rings, crafted by Jason of Beverly Hills, celebrate the hockey team’s Stanley Cup win with design elements that honor its traditions.
CrimeOct 01, 2026
Police Looking for 4 Suspects in $600K Smash-and-Grab RobberyDubai Jewelers in Springfield, Virginia, was once again the target of an armed robbery.
Brought to you by
Meet Gemology’s Next Generation Microscope: GIA® Gemolite® NXT Professional EditionExperience gemstones with greater precision and comfort than ever before.
TrendsOct 01, 2026
Amanda’s Style File: October’s Color Range This roundup of birthstone jewelry for October features vibrant tourmalines and opals with personality.
Weekly QuizSep 25, 2026
This Week’s QuizTest your jewelry news knowledge by answering these questions.
SourcingSep 30, 2026
Botswana’s President, De Beers CEO Say Diamond Demand Is RecoveringPresident Duma Boko spoke at back-to-back events in the city last week, touting Botswana’s stability and the diamond “bounceback.”
CollectionsSep 30, 2026
Oscar Heyman’s Holiday Book Is ‘A Living Archive’ The catalog showcases 112 new, one-of-a-kind pieces amid highlights from the jeweler’s historic archive.
Brought to you by
Your Piece Could Be the One Editors Talk AboutSubmit your pieces for a chance to win in this year's competition.
SourcingSep 30, 2026
Gemfields Posts $98.5M Loss, Writes Down Value of Ruby MineIts Montepuez Ruby Mining operation in Mozambique, which is not yielding enough high-quality rubies, has taken a $125 million hit.
SurveysSep 30, 2026
Consumer Confidence Falls to 12-Year Low in SeptemberThose surveyed were worried about the present and the future, with write-in responses mentioning high oil and gas prices.
Events & AwardsSep 30, 2026
Jewelers of America, JA New York to Host Networking EventThe event will take place on the evening of Oct. 26 in New York City.
IndependentsSep 29, 2026
Christy Bromberg, Longtime Gift Buyer for Underwood Jewelers, Dies at 68She is remembered for her joie de vivre, upbeat personality, genuine interest in other people, and love of the Alabama Crimson Tide.
AuctionsSep 29, 2026
Dionne Warwick’s Jewelry Goes Up for AuctionOnline bidding is open now for Julien’s sale of items owned by the “Walk On By” singer, whose final album comes out this fall.
Events & AwardsSep 29, 2026
Matt Stuller to Receive 2027 Gem Award for Lifetime AchievementThe founder and executive chairman of Stuller Inc. is being honored for his impact on the jewelry industry at the 25th annual Gem Awards.
ColumnistsSep 29, 2026
Your Holiday Marketing Has a Bridal Blind SpotDecember is the most popular month to propose, and jewelers need to keep that in mind when planning their holiday marketing.
AuctionsSep 29, 2026
If You Love Cats, This Jewelry Auction Is for YouCat ladies of the jewelry world, unite. Sandy Lerner’s collection of cat jewelry and other objects is going up for auction Wednesday.
CollectionsSep 28, 2026
De Beers London Drops Water-Inspired High Jewelry Collection“Vibrations” features several firsts for De Beers’ high jewelry, including the use of chalcedony and diamonds sourced from artisanal miners.
CollectionsSep 28, 2026
Jessica McCormack Turns to Classic Motif for New CollectionThe “Bows” collection features three interpretations of the bow motif designed with Georgian and Victorian influences.
Events & AwardsSep 28, 2026
Guy Borenstein, Troy Underwood Among the Professionals Honored at AGS Conclave 2026The American Gem Society recognized industry members, one Guild, and a law enforcement official for their contributions to jewelry.
FinancialsSep 28, 2026
Instappraise, Jewelers Mutual Look to Simplify Jewelry InsuranceThrough a new system integration, customers can now receive instant personal jewelry insurance quotes at the time of appraisal.
WatchesSep 25, 2026
Smaller Rolex Watches Showing Strength on Secondary Market, Data ShowsFive of the 10 fastest-appreciating Rolex models on Bob’s Watches were Datejust 31 or Lady Datejust watches.
MajorsSep 25, 2026
Sherwood Family Buys Back Daniel’s Jewelers from Private EquityThe Sherwood family and AJS Creations CEO Tejas Shah purchased the jewelry chain back from Palladium Equity Partners.
Lab-GrownSep 25, 2026
Brilliant Earth Collabs with Elizabeth Taylor Estate on Jewelry Collection“The Elizabeth Taylor Collection” uses lab-grown diamonds and gemstones in contemporary designs inspired by the icon.
TrendsSep 25, 2026
A Peek at Taylor Swift’s Game-Day DiamondsThe artist wore Dana Rebecca Designs’ marquise diamond-set gold hoops at the Chiefs game last Sunday. Now they’re our Piece of the Week.
CrimeSep 24, 2026
From Conclave: Security Measures Jewelers Should Be TakingJSA and Jewelers Mutual shared advice on spotting suspicious behavior, combatting cell phone jammers, and staying safe at home.
AuctionsSep 24, 2026
8-Carat Blue Diamond Heads to UK Jewelry AuctionThe fancy light blue diamond is estimated to fetch up to $2.6 million at Elmwood’s next week.
