James E Shigley

Title: The Innovative Contributions of James E. Shigley in Gemstone Evaluation

Introduction

James E. Shigley, based in Temecula, CA, is a renowned inventor in the field of gemology, with a focus on the assessment and evaluation of gemstones. With a total of four patents to his name, Shigley has made significant strides in understanding the complexities involved in evaluating gemstone appearances, particularly diamonds.

Latest Patents

Among his notable inventions is a patent titled "Systems and methods for evaluating the appearance of a gemstone." This innovation addresses the 'four C's' of diamonds: cut, color, clarity, and carat weight, with a specific emphasis on the intricacies of cut. The invention presents a three-dimensional mathematical model that studies how light interacts with a fully faceted, colorless, symmetrical round-brilliant-cut diamond.

This model allows for the analysis of various appearance factors including brilliance, fire, and scintillation, which are dependent on the diamond's proportions. The model generates both images and numerical measurements of the optical efficiency, termed DCLR (Diamond Cut Light Reflection), which approximates the overall fire of the diamond. Shigley’s invention outlines multiple combinations of proportions that yield DCLR values equal to or greater than those of 'Ideal' cuts. Additionally, it balances these ratings with other factors like brilliance and scintillation to provide cut grades for existing diamonds or analytical evaluations for prospective diamond rough.

Career Highlights

Shigley currently works at the Gemological Institute of America, Inc., a leading organization dedicated to gem education and research. His work has profoundly influenced the gemology industry, offering scientific advancements that enhance the way gemstones are evaluated. His patents have not only contributed to academic research but also have practical implications in the commercial gemstone market.

Collaborations

Throughout his career, James E. Shigley has collaborated with esteemed colleagues including Ilene M. Reinitz and Mary L. Johnson. These partnerships have played a pivotal role in advancing research and innovation in gemstone evaluation, leading to further developments in the field.

Conclusion

James E. Shigley is a prominent figure in the realm of gemology, contributing valuable insights and innovations through his patents. His work, particularly in evaluating diamond cut quality, stands as a testament to the intersection of science and artistry in gemstone assessment. As the industry continues to evolve, Shigley’s contributions will undoubtedly leave a lasting legacy in understanding the beauty and complexity of gemstones.