Adams State College receives generous gift of gemstones for art department (11-02-07)
Jim Miles and Curtis Ramsey recently donated a $32,000 gemstone collection to the Adams State College Art Department.
Dana Provence, assistant professor of art, teaches metalsmithing and sculpture. He said the gemstones will be used by students in creating jewelry or other fine art pieces. "The students can sell their work and with the profits attend conferences for professional development," Provence said. "I will be inviting artists with credentials in using gemstones in jewelry and other artwork to demonstrate for the students."
Ramsey said she is really excited for the students. "It will be an excellent opportunity for the students to have access to the stones," she said.
Miles said the stones appraise as a lot for $32,000 and are probably worth more counted individually. "I pick up stones wherever I go," he said. "I find fluorite in the San Luis Valley."
Adams State President David Svaldi said the college deeply appreciates the gemstone gift that will benefit students now and in the future.
A student of Provence, Christine Simon, introduced the idea to the Miles couple about donating the jewels.
"I have been very active in the past twenty years adding to my collection," Miles said. "I am not as active any more and have started dispersing the collection."
The Adams State Vice President for Institutional Advancement Bruce Landis expressed appreciation for the gift. "We really appreciate you bringing these stones," he said. "I know the students will benefit from the gift. We can not thank you enough."
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By Linda Relyea
