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Richard T. Liddicoat–Mr. GIA

In this episode, Mr. GIA . . .

Can you name one person who, during your lifetime, changed your life in an extraordinary way? Was it a parent, a teacher, a historical figure, or maybe a serendipitous acquaintance? One person stands out among all others - Richard T. Liddicoat. Sunday, March 2, 2025, would have been Mr. Liddicoat’s 107th birthday. Although he passed away in 2002, his memory lives on in me.

In 1985, as a resident student at the Gemological Institute of America (GIA) in Santa Monica, CA, I was invited by Richard T. Liddicoat Jr. (then Chairman of the Board) to his office.

Liddicoat was a student of human nature, a lover of gemstones, and a lifetime GIA advocate. He would visit every Resident (on campus) Colored Stone/Gem Identification classroom just before each class was to graduate. He would often bring samples of remarkable gems submitted to the GIA Gem Trade Laboratory for the students to see. He would also stop by a classroom to discuss industry trends, the latest developments in synthetics, or whatever the hot topic of the day was.

Honestly, I can’t remember what he said the day he visited our classroom because when he asked, “Any questions?” Everyone sat there, blank expressions on their faces, horrified to speak. After all, this was Mr. Liddicoat–who wrote the book on Gemology—a jewelry industry icon—the Father of Modern Gemology, Mr. GIA! Needless to say, our group was somewhat intimidated.

At that time, in addition to the Gem Identification Lab Manual, Liddicoat’s  Handbook of Gem Identification (first published in 1947) was provided to each student as a supplementary reference tool for understanding what to look for and the tests necessary to verify the identification of unknown gemstones. My copy was well-thumbed, and I consistently ferreted out identification clues that the "Lab Manual" did not offer.

In the dead silence, my hand shot up enthusiastically, “Mr. Liddicoat, would you sign my copy of your book?” “Absolutely,” He said. “Stop by my office after class.”

So, I did . . .

I’ll never forget what he asked me that day: “What are your plans after graduation? We want you to return as one of our instructors. We're always looking for young people with your enthusiasm.” His uncanny ability to cultivate people was like mining for gems: He always looked for the good in others.

For those of you who knew Mr. Liddicoat–whom many GIA staff affectionately called "RTL"–he was our leader, friend, and patriarch for over 60 years. RTL treated everyone at GIA like his son or daughter. During his visits to the Carlsbad campus long after retirement, he would stroll the halls, greeting students and colleagues by name and taking the time to chat with and encourage each individual.

His accomplishments encompassed many aspects of gemology: Liddicoat created the internationally recognized diamond grading system, expanded GIA’s education programs, elevated the Gem Trade laboratory and research functions, developed instruments to aid gem identification, wrote ground-breaking articles and books, was Editor and Chief of Gems & Gemology, and was the visionary behind the idea of a world-class gemological research library, which now bears his name: The Richard T. Liddicoat Gemological Library and Information Center.

In honor of his birthday, I hope you will take a few minutes to reflect on the values he imbued in you: integrity, respect, empathy, authenticity, and a willingness to go the extra mile for anyone who needs encouragement and direction.

He will always hold a special place in my heart as Mr. GIA, just as he does for millions of students worldwide.

Now, I realize that Mr. Liddicoat was a unique individual among millions. Still, my message is to remember that we encounter remarkable people who influence us and others daily. In our fast-paced world, take the time to appreciate and thank those exceptional individuals who make a difference–you may be one of them!

I'm Patrick Ball. Remember–stay curious and ask questions. See you in the next episode.

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Anonymous said…
I lovely tribute - to a lovely man. Nicely done!
March 4, 2025 at 8:36 AM
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