Pioneering Gemologist Henry A. Hänni Dies

By Rob Bates | January 13, 2025

Henry A. Hänni, former director of the Swiss Gemmological Institute (SSEF) and a pioneer in the field of gemology, died on Jan. 9. He was 80.

Hänni developed a fascination with gemstones while working as a technical assistant at the Mineralogical Institute of the University of Basel. He received a Ph.D. in beryl from the university in 1980 and joined the staff of SSEF the same year. He became the lab’s director in 1990.

As SSEF director, Hänni oversaw groundbreaking research on pearls, colored stones, treatment identification, and gemstone origin. While working at SSEF, he became a professor of gemology at the University of Basel in 1996. He remained in that position following his retirement from SSEF in 2009.

“He inspired countless students and professionals worldwide through his teaching and mentorship, sharing not only his vast knowledge but also his infectious enthusiasm for the field,” said an SSEF statement.

“I still like gemstones,” Hänni remarked in a 2016 video. “This is my life.”

“Professor Hänni will be remembered not only for his extraordinary academic achievements but for his unique sense of curiosity,” said Michael Krzemnicki, director of SSEF, in a statement. “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.”

A memorial page is here.