The Gemological Institute of America on its Web site says that the Halfacre family has established a GIA scholarship in honor of Marion H. Halfacre, founder and president of Traditional Jewelers in Newport Beach, Calif., who died Saturday of a heart condition. He was 58.

GIA mourns the loss of its friend,” a statement on the GIA Web site said. “A well-known and highly-respected leader of many industry and community organizations, Halfacre was one of the original founders of GIA Career Fair where, for many years, he served as a popular and esteemed career coach. His expertise and enthusiasm inspired countless students and job seekers to begin their careers in the jewelry industry.”

Halfacre is survived by his wife, Lula and children Erik and Natalie, and sister and brother-in-law Sarah and Bruce Verble, all of whom are involved in the family business. He is also survived by his mother, Elise Huff and sister, Teresa Dicus.

The Halfacre family asked that anyone wishing to make a gesture of remembrance, in lieu of flowers, to donate to this scholarship. Make checks payable to the Gemological Institute of America and note in the memo: Marion H. Halfacre Scholarship at GIA.

Please send your donation to:
The Gemological Institute of America
Robert Mouawad Campus, Mail Stop 41
5345 Armada Drive
Carlsbad, CA 92008

For more information about the Marion H. Halfacre Scholarship or to make a donation by phone, please cal Bev Berthoty, GIA manager of Institute Relations at 760-603-4120.

JCK