Los Angeles Chapter: Jewels of the 40s & 50s with Gina D’Onofrio

Where does Retro period leave off and Mid-Century jewelry design begin? What influenced the design and transition from one period to the next? And, how do you recognize jewelry from each era?

Join the Los Angeles chapter for a presentation on the evolution of jewelry design in the 1940s and 1950s from a historical context. Expert Gina D’Onofrio will explore the dramatic changes from WWII to the 1950s, examining the artistic, social, economic and political influences on the design, supply chain and fabrication of jewelry. She will discuss emerging artistic movements, fashion and how jewels were worn, contrasting designs from each era.

D’Onofrio is director of fine jewelry for Heritage Auctions. She has worked in the retail, auction and manufacturing sectors of the jewelry industry since 1989. Her experience encompasses jewelry design and production, appraisals, sales and management, as well as buying and selling contemporary, antique and period jewelry. Prior to joining Heritage, she operated an independent gemological laboratory, appraisal service and consulting firm that catered to private individuals, banks, trusts, non-profit organizations, insurance companies, legal firms and the jewelry trade in the greater-Los Angeles area.

D’Onofrio received her Master Gemologist Appraiser® designation from the American Society of Appraisers and was awarded the Certified Master Appraiser title from the National Association of Jewelry Appraisers. She received Los Angeles Magazine's coveted "Best in LA" award in 2013 for Jewelry Appraisal Services.

D’Onofrio presents appraisal and jewelry-related topics to private and corporate groups in the Los Angeles area. She is an instructor and serves as Gems and Jewelry Education Chair for the American Society of Appraisers.

All are welcome to attend; whether you're a GIA graduate, student, industry associate, hobbyist or guest. Please share this invitation with any others you feel would be interested.