The Hoover & Strong Experts

Torry, son of George Hoover and 4th generation, started with the company in 1981 while going to night school at VCU to earn a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration. While there, Torry wrote a college term paper which detailed the expansion of Hoover & Strong by diversifying into finding products. Ten years later in 1991, Hoover and Strong purchased Baker/Fendt Findings (the company Torry selected in his college paper) and expanded its products to include diestruck findings. Torry became Sales/Marketing VP from 1985-2001.

In 2001, he was named President of Hoover & Strong. Torry is an expert in his field, having worked all jobs within the refinery and the manufacturing facility at one time or another. He also designs and makes jewelry and can answer any questions you may have about the jewelry industry.

In 2010, Jeff was promoted to Jewelry Manager. Interning in all of the production areas of Mill, Refining and Findings, he settled into casting because it is a balance of art and science as well the most challenging. Jeff was also fundamental in the development of TruPd™, our new 950 palladium alloy. Jeff’s extensive knowledge of casting theory as well as hands on experience in product design through finishing will help guide you and facilitate the production of your treasures. He is also in charge of new product, production improvements and factory layout.

Stewart Grice is the Director of Mill and Refining. His qualifications include degrees in both Physics & Materials Science, and a Masters in Metallurgy & Materials. He is a Professional Member of the Institute of Materials, Minerals and Mining, and a Chartered Engineer with the Engineering Council of Great Britain. He co-authored the Precious Metals chapter of the ASM International Metals Handbook on Metallurgy and Microstructures, has had publications in Gold Technology and other trade journals and magazines. He has presented nine papers at the Santa Fe Symposium® on Jewelry Manufacturing Technology, and also co-authored seven papers, and is the recipient of seven awards. Stewart has twice presented at the MJSA "Great Minds of Jewelry" seminars. Stewart has 20 years experience in the jewelry industry working in alloy and process design, technical support, and production management. He has been a member of numerous councils and committees within the jewelry industry. He also has six years experience in industrial ceramic research. If you have a question, he has the answer.

Todd Zweifel is our Diamond and Gemstone buyer. He is a Graduate Gemologist from the Gemological Institute of America in NYC with over 25 years of experience in the jewelry industry. Todd has traveled to Antwerp, India and Israel, three of the major diamond capitals of the world to procure diamonds and learn about the supply chain first hand. Some other responsibilities include attending trade shows where he keeps up to date with the latest technologies, treatments and sources for diamonds and color. Todd is currently studying to be a title holder in the AGS, American Gemological Society.