M. Mauthner photo

Bill Larson, President of Pala International, Inc., is one of the worlds experts on precious stones, and fine mineral specimens, especially tourmalines, rubies and sapphires.

His interest in fine gems and minerals began at a very early age when he combed the hills of northern San Diego County with his father, Josephine Scripps, and John Sinkankas in search of mineral and gem crystals. He earned an advanced degree in geological engineering, receiving the coveted silver diploma from the Colorado School of Mines. From there he took Pala International to the top both in fine mineral specimens and loose gemstones. Bill has over 14 mining projects in San Diego county alone and has over 4500 feet of underground tunnel. He has found specimens that have been placed in national museums such as the American Museum of Natural History and the Smithsonian. At the young age of 77 he is still actively working and advising on projects to this day.