'Morganite' the largest kind ever gifted to GIA - view at Headquarter

01 Jun '05

3 min read

Although Meieran and Thompson share a childhood fascination with minerals, their career choices followed two distinct paths.

Meieran's interest in crystal growth led to a successful career with Intel Corporation, where he began in 1973. He is internationally recognized for his contributions to semiconductor device materials and processing technology. He retained his interest in mineral collecting, however, and was recognized for his contributions to mineralogical preservation with the 2003 Carnegie Mineralogical Award. Thompson, by contrast, became a dealer who specialized in museum-quality mineral specimens.

The two mineral enthusiasts became business partners in various mining operations and ventures after a chance meeting at a gem show 32 years ago.

“Wayne is particularly interested in the finest specimens, so he really knows about quality. For me, it doesn't matter if it's a flawless emerald or a pyrite crystal with little value, I'm fascinated by them all,” Meieran said. “Even after understanding how crystals grow, it still doesn't undermine my fascination with them. I hope others will share this fascination as a result of our gift to GIA.”

“Mr. Meieran and Mr. Thompson are well known and respected in the mineral world for their support of museum collections,” said Patricia Syvrud, director of In-Kind Gifts. “Their generosity for this significant addition to the GIA Collection is greatly appreciated.”

Established in upport of museum collections,” said Patricia Syvrud, director of In-Kind Gifts. “Their generosity for this significant addition to the GIA Collection is greatly appreciated.”

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