Register Now for AGA’s Next Gemology Career Forum
The panel features three gemologists specializing in research.
AGA launched the “What Can You Do with Your Gemology?” series, free and open to all, earlier this year to showcase the various applications for gemological accreditation and careers to consider.
Each will host practicing gemologists in a variety of professions, sharing insights into their paths and answering questions from the audience.
During the upcoming session, slated for Tuesday, Nov. 16 at 8:30 a.m. PST, AGA will highlight three gemologists specializing in research.
E. Billie Hughes, FGA, is a research gemologist and award-winning photomicrographer at Lotus Gemology in Bangkok.
She is an experienced field gemologist and regularly publishes articles and photographs as well as gives talks worldwide.
AGA awarded Hughes with its Gemological Research Grant in 2019 to continue her study of heat treatment in corundum.
Sarah Caldwell Steele, FGA, DGA, is the director of Ebor Jetworks Ltd. in Whitby, England.
She is a leading authority on jet after nearly 40 years of experience collecting, researching, and cutting the material.
Wim Vertriest, GG and FGA, holds a master’s degree in geology, specializing in geodynamics and geofluids.
He currently serves as the manager of field gemology at GIA Bangkok, where he oversees the colored stone research collection.
Vertriest has participated in several field expeditions to gem mining areas around the globe and authored and co-authored numerous published articles.
Those interested in attending the session with Hughes, Steele, and Vertriest can register online.
The inaugural session of the “What Can You Do with Your Gemology?” series featured Adrian Smith, FGA, an independent jewelry valuer in Scotland; Stuart Robertson, GG, vice president and research director of Gemworld International; Jill Burgum, GG, fine jewelry director for Heritage Auctions; and Art Samuels, GG, a high-end estate jewelry buyer and seller.
The recording of that panel can still be watched online.
The Latest

The Indian jewelry brand recently opened stores in Atlanta and Seattle.

CEO Beth Gerstein shared its most popular price points, what’s trending in non-bridal fine jewelry, and its holiday performance.

The 15 pieces were crafted from the “Insofu” emerald, discovered in Zambia in 2010.

Supplier Spotlight Sponsored by GIA

Chris Anderson is joining the insurance provider as the new chief financial officer and treasurer.


Jewelers of America is distributing a brochure for retailers to use when discussing the differences between natural and lab-grown diamonds.

The industry is changing as it grapples with new realities around distribution, supply, and the need for consistent, effective marketing.

Natural diamonds mean more than lab-grown, but when every cut is ideal, they all look the same. Customers want more—Facets of Fire delivers.

Bhansali discusses the potential impact of U.S. tariffs, demand for diamonds by market, and the “cautious confidence” in India right now.

As lab-grown diamond brands pop up across India, academics are researching how to grow demand outside of the jewelry industry.

Govind Dholakia and Tanishq will be recognized for their contributions to the industry at the Diamonds Do Good Awards in Las Vegas.

The New York City-based brand has opened its first U.K. location with a permanent shop-in-shop at Liberty in London.

A metal detectorist discovered the ring that is believed to have belonged to a bishop in the late 12th to early 13th century.

The suspect allegedly stole almost $800,000 worth of diamond jewelry from a store in Orlando and then swallowed it during a traffic stop.

Ahead of the Gem Awards on Friday, Jen Cullen Williams and Duvall O’Steen share pro tips for taking the best photos.

Founded in 2000, Marco Bicego is commemorating its milestone anniversary with a “25 Best” collection and campaigns honoring its heritage.

Those attending the company’s upcoming Zoom workshop will receive early access to “The List,” its new resource for finding buyers.

The organization will present an award to Amy-Elise Signeavsky, law enforcement and diamond recovery manager at GIA.

Chandler started his jewelry career at Michelson Jewelers, joining the Diamond Council of America as president and CEO in 2001.

Scottish American designer Maeve Gillies collaborated with Platinum Guild International on jewelry created by direct metal 3D printing.

Ahead of its trade show in May, TJS awarded free registration and accommodations to five up-and-coming jewelry industry professionals.

The 2025 Gem Awards are set to take place Friday at Cipriani 42nd Street in New York City.

The annual star-studded campaign for International Women’s Day encourages collective action against domestic violence.

The statement piece is seen in Yeprem’s new “You Play the Game” campaign, created for International Women’s Day.

Longtime employee Kyle Slosson has been promoted to the role.

First-generation jewelers Dan and Hope Wixon are retiring and will close their Minneapolis-area jewelry store in May.

The limited-edition collection, a nod to the Year of the Snake, is Ukrainian brand Guzema’s first partnership with a U.S. brand.