Tom has been buying and selling diamonds, colored gemstones, pearls, and providing beautiful jewelry to clients around the United States for over 35 years. Tom authored and teaches his course in Gemology and Appraisal Ethics in the School of Art and Design at the University of Kansas in Lawrence. Tom spent his early years in his family’s retail jewelry business, Tivol, Inc. and served as its president from 1989-2004. During his tenure, Tivol achieved recognition as one of the finest jewelers in America. He was consistently called upon by the national media to issue opinions about trends in the jewelry industry and wrote many editorials for national trade publications. He lectured at national trade shows and was a frequent speaker at the prestigious international seminars held every five years by the Gemological Institute of America.Diamond Shape, Diamond Clarity, Diamond Carat Weight, Diamond Rarity