Gemvision Founder Jeff High Dies at 60 

Jeff High, founder of jewelry-design software company Gemvision, died of cancer on September 5 at the age of 60. 

High dedicated his entire career to inventing and producing computer-aided design and manufacturing (CAD/CAM) systems and photography technology for jewelers, according to his obituary. He established Gemvision in 1990, and it was later acquired by jewelry manufacturer Stuller. In 2012, High became Stuller’s chief innovation officer.  

Two years later, he and his wife opened a store, Dianna Rae Jewelry, which showcased his technology and designs. The business won the 2024 America’s Coolest Jewelry Store Award. 

“Jeff and I spent countless hours talking about the future,” said Stuller founder Matt Stuller on Monday. “I loved his commitment to the industry and his natural slant toward technology. Jeff was always tinkering with gadgets and never quite satisfied with anything he touched. When Jeff believed in a vision, he was a fierce debater and saw endless possibilities ahead. Jeff’s work at Gemvision and Stuller will influence all of us for decades to come.” 

After selling Gemvision, High retired at 51 and spent his time helping and mentoring others. He is survived by his wife Dianna and his two daughters, Rio and Ronni, as well as his mother, siblings and “numerous” nieces and nephews. Funeral services and a celebration of life will take place on September 16 in Louisiana, and on September 20 in Iowa. 

“Those fortunate enough to have spent time with [High] witnessed the power and inspiration of his vision firsthand,” said Stuller president Danny Clark. “Even as the team worked on his latest idea, Jeff was already busy reinventing it. That was the magic of Jeff, a quality that will be deeply missed.” 

Image: Jeff High. (Stuller)