Before diamonds, rubies, emeralds, and sapphires, the organic concretion known as "pearl" has remained a treasured constant among collectors.   An enigmatic gem, mythical among gemstones, it needs none of the usual faceting and polishing to reveal its beauty;  its simplicity speaks volumes.  As historians, we think of pearls on portraits of royals over the centuries, pearls worn by famous women such as Marilyn Monroe or Elizabeth Taylor, famous names such as Mikimoto in the late 1800s, the fascinating story of the Cartier mansion in NYC, the simple pearl stud earring or necklace many women received as gifts when young; all have to do with this unique gemstone.  Michael Coan, well known adjunct instructor at FIT in NYC, will speak to ASJH members in a comprehensive and fascinating look at pearls throughout history.  We guarantee you will look at pearls through different lenses after this fascinating talk.  

Michael Coan was Chair of the Jewelry Design Department of the Fashion Institute of Technology in NYC from 2001 to 2015.  He has been involved in the jewelry industry for the past 40 years, including bench work, appraisals, manufacturing and production, mentoring, jewelry design, and as a graduate gemologist.  His profound love for education on the subject of jewelry permeates all he does, and he has lectured for numerous organizations on various jewelry-related subjects. 

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