Well-Known Louisiana Jeweler Jeff High Dies at 60

Jeff High, a well-known figure in the jewelry industry, has died.

He was 60, according to an obituary. High passed away from cancer at his residence in Duson, LA.

He founded Gemvision and “his entire career was dedicated to inventing, designing, and creating CAD/CAM and photography technology for jewelry designers,” the obituary noted.

In 2012, High and his family moved to Lafayette, LA, from Bettendorf, IA, and he became chief innovation officer at Stuller. In 2014, he and his wife, Dianna Davis High, opened Dianna Rae Jewelry, showcasing his technology and designs. In 2024, they were honored with the top award in INSTORE’s America’s Coolest Stores Contest.

“Jeff and I spent countless hours talking about the future,” Matt Stuller, founder of Stuller, said in a statement. “I loved his commitment to the industry and his natural slant towards technology. Jeff was always tinkering with gadgets and never quite satisfied with anything he touched. When Jeff believed in a vision, he was a fierce debater and saw endless possibilities ahead. Jeff’s work at Gemvision and Stuller will influence all of us for decades to come. We are forever grateful for our time with Jeff, although it was far too short.”

Danny Clark, president of Stuller. stated: “Jeff was always focused on the future. Those fortunate enough to have spent time with him witnessed the power and inspiration of his vision firsthand. Even as the team worked on his latest idea, Jeff was already busy reinventing it. That was the magic of Jeff, a quality that will be deeply missed.”

After selling Gemvision, High retired at age 51 and devoted his time to inventing, designing and creating for local businesses, non-profits and friends.