Gordon Aatlo

Father: Hilmar Aatlo

Mother: Lilly Charlotte Rostad (1903-1999)

Born December 9, 1936, in Minneapolis, Minnesota.

Died April 24, 2012, in California, of leukemia.

Gordon moved to San Francisco at a young age. With his uncle as jeweler to the King of Norway and his father an accomplished bench jeweler, it was only natural that Gordon would follow in their footsteps

As a ten year old, he would go tohis dad’s shop after school to work and play, making simple sterling silver jewelry including sand cast signet rings for school friends.

His interest in pursuing a jewelry career happened while serving in the U.S. Army, stationed in the Panama Canal Zone as a supply sergeant. He apprenticed with his father, who had a special order and repair shop. The shop was located at 830 Market Street in San Francisco, California. The building was completed following the 1906 quake, and housed many jewelry trades: diamond setters, engravers, manufacturers and repair shops.

One of his first projects was a lady's gold and pearl ring. It had a crossover shank, high polished with a large white cultured pearl in the center. This ring gave hima great feeling of accomplishment.

He was very secure in knowing his work would lead others, was cutting edge, beautiful, wearable and recognizable. He labored long hours to keep his ideas fresh and evolving.

Spouse: Ulmar

Children:

1. F Christine Aatlo.
2. M Byron Aatlo (-December 27, 2012).
3. M Thore Aatlo.
4. F Kelly Aatlo.

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Modified 05-Jan-2013