Obituaries

Staff -- JCK Online, 7/1/2002 2:00:00 AM

Christina Martinez, 20, education services assistant at Gemological Institute of America, New York, was killed Friday, May 17, when the car she was driving collided with a tractor-trailer. Martinez was returning to New York City after picking up a friend who was attending college in Albany. Martinez's friend, who was not identified, also died in the crash.

Martinez began working at GIA on August 21, 2000. She earned her Accredited Jewelry Professional Diploma and successfully completed the Graduate Diamonds course in residence through evening classes.

"Christina was just 20 years old, but she had already established herself as an important and popular member of GIA and its New York operation," said Tom Yonelunas, CEO of GIA's Gem Trade Laboratory. "Christina demonstrated great commitment to GIA and infectious enthusiasm in her work. Christina also was a dedicated and active member of the GIA Alumni Association, and she was well known to the Gem Instruments and the Gem Trade Laboratory staff."

Nicholas J. DeCristofaro Sr., founder and chairman of the board of Carla Corp., East Providence, R.I., died March 18, 2002, at the age of 81. A toolmaker by trade and a jewelry manufacturer for more than 50 years, he also was a former partner in Beaucraft Inc., also based in Rhode Island. He is survived by a daughter, son, eight grandchildren, and eight great-grandchildren.