ABOUT US: The Faceters Guild of Southern California (FGOSC) is dedicated to the preservation of the art of faceting (cutting) gemstones, from basic skills through competition levels.
The art of faceting, or cutting, gemstones has existed for over a thousand years. Early jewels cut by hand do not compare with the precision accuracy of modern faceting machines.
LIBRARY FGOSC has an extensive collection of books and videos relative to faceting and other gemological activities. Members may check out printed material at no charge for up to three months. Videos are to be returned at the next meeting date.
Meeting update: (March 2010). Jeff Jarvi, owner of Facetron, will be in attendence for our monthly membership meeting. Bring your questions/topics for an engaging meeting. For general information: Secretary Clare is a delight to speak with, having decades of knowledge. (See Tribute Below)
Or FGOSC President Gene who can be contacted at (951) 808-0602 during evening hours. 12/25/2009: PASSING OF CLARE GAGNON It is with great sadness the guild learned today of the passing of Clare Gagnon who died December 22, 2009. Most recently, Clare was senior editor for the Guild and throughout his long association has served at every level of leadership. Clare's involvement extended well beyond faceting as he was skilled in many lapidary arts. He willingly shared his decades of wisdom to hundreds through his mentoring. He brought new skills to so many at the VA hospital where he regularly held classes. Through the years, Clare was involved with the SEARCHERS rock club as well as the Opal Society. As our editor of the Faceters Guild's monthly newsletter, "Angles," Clare drew upon his seemingly endless repository of information to further the advancement of gemstone faceting and education of the membership. Clare taught our members how to use the "GemCad" program for gemstone design and was the most regular contributor of gemstone designs, many being his own creations. He constantly encouraged our members to create their own gem designs and he always recognized those who did so with great pride. Clare's favorite faceting material was tourmaline and without fail, many of his designs were specifically tailored for this beautiful stone. Although our most senior member, he could still judge a gemstone's meet points for accuracy without the use of any means of magnification, or even glasses. He was critical, honest and fair in his assessment of the work of others. His criticism was certainly intended to be a source of inspiration to always "do better". Clare's contribution to the Guild is irreplaceable. He was truly the backbone of the organization and a source of inspiration to each and everyone. He eagerly spoke of his two trips to Minas Gerias, Brazil, where he ventured into various mines and dealt with street dealers selling aquamarine to his marvel over a single aqua crystal weighing in at over 600 pounds. During a more melancholy moment, Clare would reflect upon a nearly year long stay trekking through Australia with his wife. Speaking of this trip always brought a smile to his face as his voice drifted down memory lane. Clare's family has planned services for him at Blessed Sacrament Church, 14072 Olive St., Westminster CA for Monday Dec. 28th, 2009 at 10:00 a.m. We'll miss you Clare, but you will remain forever in our hearts and the brilliance in our gems will remind us of the sparkle in your eye as you taught yet another how to create beauty out of stone.
Last Updated: December 25, 10:56 PM