|
FIRE IN THE EARTH
|
||
|
|
||
|
The
Gemological Institute of America is, as its name implies, an
educational organization. It was founded in 1931 for the purpose of
promoting the education of students in the science of gemology. As the
students of the Institute progressed in their courses there was
awakened the feeling of fellowship among them and a desire for closer
co-operation between them, resulting in the founding of the American
Gem Society in 1934.
Unquestionably
this Institute is performing an important function in inculcating real
knowledge about diamonds and other gems on the minds of people in the
trade. Too many in the trade have only a superficial knowledge of gems,
being more concerned with dollar values. Or they are so absorbed in the
business of jewelry that they don't seem to have time to think of
trends or public preferences. They know that at one time, the climax
being in 1929, there was a tremendous demand for diamonds, then an
abrupt falling off, then a moderate rise, and, even before the general
depression, another drop. They do not stop to ask themselves what
contributed to the drop and what contributed to the comeback of
diamonds. As to the former they say glibly, "Depression," and to the
latter, "Boom!"
It was more than a "boom" that brought about the 1941 comeback of diamonds. You can find five decisive factors:
1. Trends in dress, home decoration, and design in general toward elegance and embellishment.
2. The diamond engagement ring, which still accounts for the greater proportion of diamond sales, is in wide demand owing to increasing number of marriages (always accompanying wartime conditions) and ease with which the diamond may be purchased on credit.
3. Pride of ownership and pride of family lead to dia-
(164)
|
||
|
|
||