Professor Henry Hänni, director of the Swiss Gemmological Institute (SSEF) for 19 years, died on January 9 at the age of 80.
Hänni, a pioneer in the field of gemology, began his career as a technical assistant at the Mineralogical Institute of the University of Basel, Switzerland, SSEF said Monday.
In 1990, Hänni joined SSEF as director, contributing to the institute’s development and broadening its international reputation. His research in pearls and colored stones was also significant to the gemology field. Six years later, he became professor of gemology at the University of Basel, and remained active in gemstone research and education following his retirement in 2009.
“Professor Hänni will be remembered not only for his extraordinary academic achievements, but for his unique sense of curiosity,” said SSEF director Dr. Michael Krzemnicki. “His warm personality and distinctive sense of humor touched all who knew him, making him not just a respected colleague but a beloved friend to many in the international gemological community.”
Image: Henry Hänni. (Swiss Gemmological Institute)
