Carlsbad, Calif. - Feb. 1, 2008 - The Gemological Institute of America (GIA) Richard T. Liddicoat Library and Information Center is in the process of donating 1,000 copies of the recently published book, American Cut: the First 100 Years to nationwide public libraries. The book is made available through the participation of the individual GIA Alumni Association chapters across the nation who will work directly with their local libraries to receive a donated copy.

American Cut: the First 100 Years, by well-known GIA Research Associate Al Gilbertson , follows the history and chronology of American diamond cutting in this easy-to-read book. It describes the early stages of the European diamond cutting industry, and how American ideas and inventions influenced diamond cutting which eventually changed diamond cutting around the world.

“This book is now an integral source of in-depth information that tells the history behind diamond cutting,” said Dona Dirlam, director of the GIA Library. “Our donation of American Cut to 1,000 libraries makes this book easily accessible to the general public or members of the trade, which aligns with our mission to help educate the public about gemology.”

If you are a member of a GIA Alumni Chapter and interested in obtaining a copy of American Cut to donate to your local library, contact GIA Manager of Alumni Relations Rose McKenna at rmckenna@gia.edu.

American Cut: The First 100 Years is published by GIA, and is currently available by calling (800) 421-8161 or visiting  www.gia.edu and clicking on "Instruments and Books."

Libraries interested in getting the book should visit the GIA Web site or call (800) 421-8161 or contact your local GIA alum chapter.

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