Mandeville Jeweler Washington

Antonio Bonanno, Anne Dale, Antoinette Matlins (Bonanno’s daughter) Tom and Dianna Chatham

In the 1985 a chance encounter at a jewelry trade show would have Anne Dale leave her beloved New Orleans relocating to Washington DC to study the science of gemstones.

She would do an apprenticeship under world renowned gemologist Antonio Bonanno working in his lab (during the day) while attending the Columbia School of Gemology at night.

“Sadly, Mr. Bonanno is no longer with us but I felt his spirit as I returned these 25 plus years later” said Dale. Dale was part of a contingency from Louisiana to “March the Hill” meeting with congressional leaders and representatives to promote seafood and our-way-of-life.

Anne Dale with Congressman Jeff Landry

Dale’s new gemstone derived from Louisiana oysters (LaPearlite) was on display as a symbol of the beauty and resilience the Gulf Coast. The Smithsonian Institution granted a rare peek behind the scenes of natural history to a small group with Dale.

“The Smithsonian was the highlight of the week for me personally…  to think so many years ago I began my career just a short distance from here and today Louisiana LaPearlite is here among gemstones from around the world… I think this would have made Mr. Bonanno proud.”