Learn About Gem & Jewelry Photography in AGA’s Next Career Forum
Join experts Orasa Weldon, Danny Sanchez, and Jeff Mason on Tuesday, Nov. 15.

“What Can You Do with Your Gemology—Gem and Jewelry Photography” is scheduled for Tuesday, Nov. 15 from 12-1:30 p.m.
It will feature three gemologists who are experts in the area: Orasa Weldon, Danny Sanchez, and Jeff Mason.
Orasa Weldon earned a gemology certificate at the Asian Institute of Gemological Science in Bangkok, Thailand and a Graduate Gemologist diploma from the Gemological Institute of America.
She worked in the trade as a gemologist in Thailand and China, and later earned a degree in graphic design from the Tyler School of Art at Temple University in Philadelphia.
She eventually returned to southern California, where she combined her fine arts education with gemology, designing books and other publications for GIA and other gem industry clients.
Her photography has appeared in Gems & Gemology, The Journal of Gemmology, InColor Magazine, Gemmology Today, The New York Times, and many more. She has also served as head judge for the Gem-A Photographer of the Year Competition in the U.K.
Danny Sanchez is a Los Angeles-based gemologist and artist specializing in photomicrography.
He’s a graduate of the Gemological Institute of America and is self-taught in the art of photomicrography.
First inspired by the Photoatlas of Inclusions in Gemstones by Eduard Gübelin and John Koivula, Sanchez’s images leverage his gemological knowledge through his photography tools. His work has been shown at Art Basel Miami and publications include Wired, Vice, and Smithsonian Magazine.
Jeff Mason is a photographer and gemologist specializing in product and jewelry photography.
With 20 years of industry experience, he brings his knowledge of gemstones and passion for photography together to ensure gemstones and jewelry are properly represented.
Those interested in AGA’s free career forum next week can register online.
It’s the fourth installment of the series, designed to showcase the various applications for gemological accreditation and its diverse career paths.
Past topics have included gem and jewelry valuation, gemological laboratory research, and gemology publications.
Recordings of previous sessions are available in AGA’s digital library.
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.