Professor Dr. Henry A. Hänni: Former Director of the SSEF, died January 9th, 2025 at the age of 80
Professor Dr. Henry A. Hänni was a pioneering gemological scientist, educator, and mentor whose contributions have shaped the modern field of gemology. He served as Director of SSEF (the Swiss Gemmological Institute) from 1990 to 2009, transforming it into a globally respected institution known for research, gemstone identification, and advanced training.
Hänni earned his FGA Diploma in 1978 from the Gemmological Association of Great Britain and completed a doctorate in mineralogy at the University of Basel in 1980 with a thesis on beryl from the Swiss Alps. He became a professor of gemology at Basel University in 1996 and regularly taught courses at Basel and Lausanne universities for over 30 years.
His groundbreaking research, spanning gemstone treatments, pearl analysis, and scientific gemology, earned him international acclaim. Hänni authored more than 150 papers in multiple languages, covering topics such as gemstone properties, analytical techniques, and treatment detection. His leadership was instrumental in developing the SSEF journal FACETTE and establishing rigorous gemological standards, including his work with Jean-Pierre Chalain on the landmark publication Standards and Applications on gemstone treatment disclosure.
Recognized for his dedication, he received the prestigious Antonio C. Bonanno Award for Excellence in Gemology from the Accredited Gemologists Association in 2004.
As an Honorary Lifetime Member of The Gemmological Association of Hong Kong (GAHK), Professor Dr. Hänni led and guided GAHK’s publication for many years, elevating it from an internal newsletter to a renowned international academic journal.
Hänni’s passion for sharing knowledge inspired him to travel extensively, visit gemstone mining regions, and forge connections and friendships with gemologists worldwide. Even during his illness, he remained committed to the field, working on the 2025 edition of the GAHK Journal.
His influence extended beyond research, fostering meaningful relationships and inspiring countless students and professionals. His legacy in gemology endures, not only through his scientific contributions but also in the lives he touched with his wisdom, humility, and dedication.
Pearl Expertise
Back in the day (late 1990s/early 2000s) during the enormous development of Chinese freshwater cultured pearls, we would often times consult with Henry regarding pearl identification, how to determine whether a pearl was natural, bead-nucleated cultured, or tissue-nucleated. His research and expertise was invaluable for publishing detailed reports in trade magazines for international pearl merchants, gemologist appraisers, and retail jewelers. – gr
Ken Scarratt, CIBJO Vice President, and Dean of the CIBJO Academy.
“Losing someone of Henry’s stature is indeed sad,” says Scarratt, “but it does serve as a sudden reminder of the immense contributions, often overlooked in one’s lifetime, given freely to our special world. Henry gave his life and soul to the betterment of gemmology, past present and future and his works are embedded in our DNA.”
“On a personal note, I always appreciated his insights into pearl related nomenclature, his thoughts and advice resulting in a better understanding of the product.”
“My sincere condolences to his family and wishes for happy memories.”
Alice Keller, retired editor-in-chief of GIA’s gemological journal Gems & Gemology (G&G), shared her thoughts on Prof. Dr. Henry Hänni’s contributions to the field.
“Henry Hänni published and reviewed numerous scientific articles for Gems & Gemology during my tenure as editor-in-chief,” Keller recalled. “His knowledge of colored stones and technical instrumentation was exceptional. He was a giant in the field.”
Keller described Hänni as an outstanding gemological researcher, an accomplished author, and an influential leader as head of the SSEF. He collaborated extensively with labs, lab directors, and personnel worldwide.
Recognizing his expertise, Keller invited Hänni to join G&G’s review board, where he proved to be an excellent reviewer. He thoroughly enjoyed being part of the editorial process.
“Our editorial battles were legendary,” Keller reminisced fondly. “Yet for the better part of a decade, he invited me to stay with him and his wife Beatrice during the annual Basel Fair. He was a gracious host and, ultimately, a very good friend.”
Shane McClure, global director of colored stone services at GIA’s world headquarters in Carlsbad, California
“Henry Hänni was a true pioneer in the field of gemology,” says McClure, “and I had the privilege to know him for many years.”
“He truly loved the science of gems and minerals. I remember a few years back when I ran into him at the Basel show. He was having a wonderful time with a group of his students, and it was clear that he was really enjoying showing them something about the jewelry business. He will be sorely missed.”
Dr. Lore Kiefert, of Dr. Lore Kiefert Gemmology Consulting
“His 80th birthday was a sad day for us,” remarks Dr. Kiefert. “On this day, we learned that he had passed away, and we all felt a profound sense of loss.”
“Dr. Hänni was a remarkable scientist and mentor. I had the privilege of working with him at SSEF as a young gemologist, and I owe much of who I am today to his guidance. He taught me to look beyond the obvious, expect the unexpected, test thoroughly, and strive to become a gemstone specialist—though I doubt I will ever match his level of expertise.”
“In addition to his vast knowledge, he had an extraordinary ability to innovate, developing new testing methods and acquiring the most advanced instruments for gem analysis. His research and collaborations with other researchers around the world resulted in numerous groundbreaking publications.”
“With his unique sense of humour, Henry remains fondly remembered by many of us across the globe. He was especially active in Hong Kong, where he once sent me as a young gemologist, asking members of the GAHK to look after me—and they did. He also encouraged my participation in other shows and conferences, helping me grow into the professional I am today.”
“Knowledgeable, generous, intelligent, always willing to share, funny, and occasionally fiery—these qualities and more made Henry a truly unique figure in the world of gemology. He will be deeply missed.”
Christine Rain Chu, Director of Publication for The Gemmological Association of Hong Kong (GAHK) and Executive Editor of the GAHK Annual Journal
“Professor Dr. Hänni was both a mentor and a close friend to so many of us gemologists in Hong Kong,” says Chu.
“The development of the GAHK is full of the footprints of Henry. As an editorial consultant of the GAHK journal, he shared his expertise, provided sponsorship, and demonstrated decades of dedication, leading and guiding us along a professional and academic path even during his illness in his final days.”
“He is to be missed forever.”
Christopher Smith, Director of the American Gemological Laboratories in New York.
Smith was deeply saddened to learn of Henry’s passing last week. “How does one give proper credit to someone such as Henry Hänni in a few words? He was a pivotal figure in the world of gemology throughout his prestigious career. He was and will always be known as a pioneer in his chosen vocation.”
“Henry is best known for multitude of published research, talks and leading of the SSEF lab, making it one of the most highly respected gemological laboratories across the world.”
“While George Bosshart, a highly respected colleague, laid the foundation as SSEF’s first director, it was Henry that took this laboratory and raised it to the forefront of gemological research and high calibre of gemstone reporting. Not only was he brilliant, but he was also a man with a strong will, high ethical standards, a sharp wit and a great sense of humor.”
“Not to be overlooked, however, was how he took the time and made the effort to encourage colleagues and young gemologists, including myself—even from the very first time we met, despite my working for a rival laboratory in close proximity. As such a person, he inspired me (and countless others) to become a better and better gemologist. Throughout his career, he carried on the great work of his peers and colleagues, such as Dr. Gübelin and others, by merging the worlds of science and art to advance modern-day gemology and gemologists, sharing his passion, knowledge, and experience along the way.”
“Henry’s legacy will be long-lasting, as his contributions to the world of gemology continue to educate and inspire. He will be missed, but also remembered with great respect and fondness.”
As noted above, the Accredited Gemologists Association awarded Hänni the Antonio C. Bonanno Award for Excellence in Gemology back in 2004. Antoinette Matlins, author, gemologist, appraiser, and one of four Bonanno daughters, remembers Henry well.
“Dr. Hänni was one of only a handful of people I’ve ever met who reminded me of my father, Antonio C. Bonanno, in whose name the award was created,” says Matlins. “Dad was never intimidated by anyone and was driven by a desire to share whatever information he discovered, both within the trade and with the public. Henry shared this same view. He freely gave of his time and knowledge to an extent few have matched, often with a sense of humor.”
“My first experience with Henry involved some pearls purportedly found at an archaeological site on a Caribbean island, discovered in a buried clay pot dating back to the 15th century. They appeared to be genuine natural pearls, but a respected gem lab stated they could not confirm their authenticity. While attending a European conference, I spoke to several natural pearl experts, and Dr. Hänni’s name emerged as the person I should contact.”
“Henry was intrigued by the story and left no stone unturned in his testing. His conclusion? They were indeed all natural, untreated pearls.”
“His relentless drive to confirm or refute the story reminded me of my father, a man of intelligence, experience, with a deep passion for gemology, and someone who would stop at nothing until he understood precisely what he was dealing with.”
“While all of us who knew him will miss him deeply, I believe the heavens above are celebrating his arrival. He and his friends who recently preceded him will surely light up the night sky with their sparkling discussions!”
Tap the image below to be directed to SSEF and their memoriam for Prof. Dr. Henry Hänni
Tap the image here to be directed to the Online Memorial Page for Prof. Dr. Henry Hänni.
