GIA News

Al Gilbertson Alumni talk at GIA London

All rights reserved

You are cordially invited to attend a talk on

Evolution of the Ideal

The evolution of the standard round brilliant, called the "Ideal Cut" as early as 1903 has a rich history, sometimes challenging conventional thinking as it developed. As various "experts" attempted to influence its proportions, certain standards held. This talk traces some of the history and discusses the appearance issues that continue to contribute to its popularity.

by Al Gilbertson

Research Associate, GIA Carlsbad


Al Gilbertson grew up around the lapidary business and went on to become an expert in faceting and appraising.He was an active member of the American Gem Society for 20 years before coming to GIA in 2000. Part of his work at GIA involved investigating previous research and concepts about well-cut diamonds.As he dug into this history, he was surprised by some of what he found, which led him to question much of his understanding about how the Ideal Cut had evolved. He continued his research into the history well beyond what was necessary for his project at GIA and wrote a book, 'American Cut -The First 100 Years'.


Mr. Gilbertson is one of GIA's researchers that created their cut grading system for the round brilliant. Copies of Mr Gilbertson's book will be available for purchase and signing.

Wednesday October 29th, 2008

6:30pm for 7:00pm start

at the GIA London Campus


The event is free for current GIA students.

Alumni members - £3.

Non members and guests - £5.

NB: All GIA Graduates (Certificate or Diploma) are now automatically Members.


RSVP by phone (+44 (0) 207 813 4321) or e-mail us at info@gialondon.co.uk

16th October 2008