This content was first published on IGR – Italian Gemological Review no. 19 in 2024. The information provided here is therefore current as of the original publication date.
And so, another luminary of Italian gemmology has departed. Gently, with the grace that defined him — taken by surprise by a sudden and fatal stroke. It occurred on a Tuesday in April (the 9th), in Alessandria, nine leagues from his birthplace (Tortona, September 24, 1939), and fifteen leagues from where he fully realized and demonstrated his scientific, intellectual, and professional prowess (Valenza Po).
And there couldn’t be a better summary than his whole life spent in the service of knowledge and its dissemination, after graduating in chemistry from the University of Genoa in 1969:
- Professor from 1968 to 1981: Teacher (first as an assistant and then as a full professor) of Science, Chemistry and Geography in various high schools with a scientific focus;
- during the same period: Teacher of Mineralogy, Gemmology and Precious Stones Appraisal at the Benvenuto Cellini State Art Institute in Valenza Po;
- from 1968 to 1974: Assistant at the State Gemmological Laboratory in Valenza Po;
- from 1974 to 1988: Co-owner with Dr. Leone of the “Studio Consulenze Gemmologiche” (Gemmological Consultancy Studio) in Valenza Po;
- from 1988 to 2016: Owner of the “Studio Analisi Consulenze Gemmologiche” (Analysis and Gemmological Consultancy Studio) in Valenza Po;
- since 1984: Lifetime member of the GIA Alumni Association;
- Court and Chamber of Commerce Appraiser in Alessandria;
- trusted Appraiser of a major banking institution;
- Co-author of gemmological texts:
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- with Dr. E. Leone: Natural and Synthetic Gemstones (1985);
- with the jeweller C. Mazloum: Gems and Jewellery (1996), translated into four languages;
- Contributor to gemmological journals, including the present-day “IGR — Italian Gemological Review”.
Carlo’s esteemed professional journey eloquently reflects his innate passion for knowledge dissemination and sharing, characterized by rigor and a profound ethical compass. This dedication not only manifested in his teaching and thorough gemstone examinations entrusted to his care but also in his scientific contributions that expanded the horizons of gemmological comprehension.
This constitutes Carlo’s enduring legacy within the gemmological community. His memory will be honored by those who knew him as a mentor, scholar, gemologist or appraiser, recognizing his authoritative guidance and expertise that shaped their professional and personal trajectories. Firmly rooted in ethical values, Carlo’s convictions and attitudes mirrored the scientific upbringing of his training characterized by the same clarity of chemical formulas, leaving no room for ambiguity.
Despite the seriousness of his almost “Calvinistic” approach to gemmology he was not devoid of humor. This was evident in our lighthearted and frequent telephone conversations over the years. Perhaps this explains why he held me in a certain (undeserved, when compared to his “achievements”) regard, finding in my writings (even those from years ago, of which he miraculously recalled edition, page, and position, such was the power of his visual memory) that playful aspect that provided a refreshing contrast to the seriousness of gemmological discourse.
Just a couple of months before he left, Carlo revealed to me his fondness for the whimsical “Bad-Mouthed Jiminy Cricket” column in this Magazine, the first article he eagerly dove into. For a laugh, he said — perhaps indulging in a re-read as well.
Thank you, dear Carlo, for enriching my life with your friendship and this Magazine with your benevolent collaboration. I know that you had two or three more articles on the pipeline, which our audience will now miss, but such is life at times, down here. It’s hard for me to get used to the idea that I will no longer hear your voice on the phone and that no more of your articles will reach the IGR. However, I am comforted by the deep conviction that in the afterlife you’ll truly comprehend the significance of your life — a life well-lived, generously sharing your knowledge and wisdom with others.
Article by Luigi Costantini, published on IGR – Italian Gemological Review #19 – Autumn 2024.
