GORDON FOLLOWS PASSION FOR PRECIOUS STONES
When Julia Gordon plunged her young hands into the crisp, freezing water rushing through the rockhounding trough for the first time, she had no idea a childhood passion would blossom into a unique career.
At a young age, gemology became a passion for Gordon. Throughout all her pursuits, the unique industry continues as a cornerstone for her.
“My mother used to take my brother and myself rockhounding as kids,” said Gordon, senior. “Growing up, I always heard terms such as inclusions and the 3Cs—color, cut, and carat—thrown around. I didn’t fully understand what they were talking about, but it had already piqued my interest.”
Gordon will pursue her passion after graduating in December. She plans to attend the Gemological Institute of America (GIA) to pursue three graduate degrees. The driven gemologist already holds her applied jewelry professional certificate and is eager to work in the various aspects of her field while attending GIA.
Outside of gemology, Gordon holds numerous responsibilities at Lynn. She serves as the Hillel e-board treasurer, Chabad e-board vice president and Debate Team e-board president. Gordon’s meteoric rise through the ranks and significant involvement on campus might have lead her to employment in politics or religion, but her passion for precious stones has her returning to her roots for a career.
“Although being involved in religious groups has always been a part of my life, I did not want to make it my career,” said Gordon. “I have no doubt that I will always be involved with charity and religious organizations. However, I want to be able to have a career in a field separate from that.”
Gordon’s family eagerly awaits her arrival after graduating from GIA so she can work for the family business. Gordon’s grandparents own the Jewelry Judge Ben Gordon, an appraisal business in Houston. After attending GIA, Gordon’s responsibilities at the appraisal shop will range from evaluating the authenticity of jewelry to grading and weighing stones.
“I hope to learn from my grandfather, who has more than 65 years in the jewelry business, and to learn how to run a business successfully,” said Gordon.
Gordon’s enthusiasm for her future in gemology knows no bounds. Nevertheless, Lynn and Gordon’s experiences here will remain near and dear to her heart for the rest of her life. Looking back on her time at Lynn, Gordon prides herself on all of her accomplishments, leadership roles and honors.
“I have learned a lot about myself and others during my time here. Knowing who you are and how you work best can define the next steps in your life,” said Gordon. “Lynn has helped me prepare for the future because it solidified parts of who I am as a person.”
