Editor’s Note
This article highlights the groundbreaking work of Dr. Edward J. Gübelin, whose pioneering research into gemstone inclusions fundamentally transformed the science of gemology. His legacy endures in the tools and knowledge used to authenticate and understand gems today.
Swiss gemologist Dr. Edward J. Gübelin (1913–2005) will forever be associated with the study of gemstone inclusions. His work revolutionized gemology: thanks to his pioneering research and photomicrography, the diagnostic value of these internal features is now recognized, revealing a gem’s characteristics, geographic origin, treated or untreated status, and natural or synthetic source.
Co-authored by several family members, this book chronicles Edward Gübelin’s 65-year groundbreaking research career while also exploring his profound humanity. Although the work of a research gemologist is often solitary, Dr. Gübelin touched countless lives through his numerous publications, photomicrographs, extensive travels, laboratory work, the educational organizations he helped establish, and his significant gem collection.
Dr. Gübelin began influencing my career in 1979. I was 22 years old and thrilled to receive a long letter from him praising my first article published in Gems & Gemology. He encouraged me to continue writing and taking photomicrographs. His letter was clear and kind. In fact, Dr. Gübelin elevated the art of letter-writing to a new level, demonstrating fresh wit and eloquence. Following this letter, we maintained a 25-year correspondence and a lasting friendship beyond gemology. He was gracious and offered advice on many topics. When I visited GIA, I always seemed to see Lake Lucerne either on the way to my destination or on the way home. On holidays, I often spent a few days visiting the Gübelins at their beautiful house on Lake Lucerne. For me, it was an extraordinary privilege. Dr. Gübelin also encouraged and mentored countless gemologists worldwide.
This lavishly illustrated book is more than just a biography of one of gemology’s most important forefathers; it also provides an overview of the field’s development from the late 20th to early 21st centuries.
The “Origins” and “Lucerne, Roots” chapters detail the history of the company and family. The second chapter begins:
The body of book work published from his retirement from the company in 1977 until his death on March 25, 2005, proves his life was truly dedicated to gemology. The book notes,
Subsequent chapters guide the reader through Dr. Gübelin’s journey, from his mineralogical and gemological studies in the 1930s to becoming a leading expert, culminating in the 21st century with the establishment of a world-leading gemological laboratory specializing in origin determination. Dr. Gübelin was a world-class gem collector, intrepid traveler, mentor, and author.
The chapter on his literary contributions begins,
This book summarizes Dr. Gübelin’s immense contributions to gemological and scientific literature through abstracts, meticulously documenting the timing of landmark events, accolades, and awards, serving as a bibliography of published books and articles.
Following this book, a special limited edition was published in 2013 to commemorate the 100th anniversary of Dr. Gübelin’s birth, titled: Enduring Values: In Celebration of Eduard Josef Gübelin. A few special edition copies were printed in 2013 and given as gifts to clients of the Gübelin Gem Lab and the Gübelin Group. The main difference between the two is that the 2013 edition contains tributes to Dr. Gübelin from over 18 individuals, from colleagues to family, while the 2014 edition contains only three. The remainder of the 2014 edition is largely the same as the 2013 version but with some differences in image layout, paper type, photographs, and text editing.
This book is essential reading for gemologists with a particular interest in gemstone inclusions. It is especially suitable for those who wish to understand the historical origins of gemology and the life and extensive writings of one of its greatest pioneers.