The excitement and discoveries from GIA’s sixth International Gemological Symposium can be experienced in the Fall issue of Gems & Gemology, GIA’s quarterly professional journal. Nearly 800 attendees from 36 countries gathered in Carlsbad, California, from October 7 to 9 to learn about leading-edge gemological and mineralogical research and to advance their understanding of global business. The research and business tracks ran simultaneously, offering guests the opportunity to immerse themselves in either area.
The latest edition of Gems & Gemology focuses on abstracts from the research track, including 37 speaker presentations and 68 poster sessions covering seven research themes: colored stones and pearls, diamond geology, diamond identification, gem characterization, gem localities and formation, general gemology and jewelry, and new technologies and techniques. In a parallel program, the business track offered classes taught by three Harvard Business School professors that explored real-life case studies on Authentic Leadership, Customer Centricity and Disruptive Innovation.
The Gems & Gemology issue closes with a recap of Futurescape Forum, a remarkable event that offered unique insights into the trajectory of the gem and jewelry industry. The panel featured Bruce Cleaver, CEO of the De Beers Group; Gina Drosos, CEO of Signet Jewelers; Jason Goldberger, CEO of Blue Nile; Andy Johnson, CEO of Diamond Cellar Holdings; Rahul Kadakia, international head of jewelry at Christie’s; and Kent Wong, managing director of Chow Tai Fook. These industry leaders discussed technological breakthroughs, changing consumer tastes and sustainability concerns.
About GIA
Established in 1931, GIA is the world’s foremost authority on diamonds, colored stones, and pearls. A public benefit, nonprofit institute, GIA is the leading source of knowledge, standards, and education in gems and jewelry. Students around the globe turn to GIA for the knowledge, skills, and credentials that launch successful gem and jewelry careers. The world leader in gemological research, GIA’s breakthrough discoveries deepen our understanding of gemstones and the world. Through research, education, and unbiased gem grading and analysis, GIA strives to protect the gem and jewelry buying public by setting global quality standards. For more information, please visit www.gia.edu.
