TechnologyJul 10, 2026
There’s a New Blind Box for Luxury Watches Collectibles platform Arena Club’s new Time Boxes could contain a Rolex or Patek Philippe watch.
Events & AwardsJan 26, 2017
What the GIA Has Going On in Tucson
Lessons on lab-grown diamonds and on-site laboratory services are just two of the activities the GIA has planned for the upcoming gem shows.
The Gemological Institute of America will have 13 of the finest minerals from the Joel and Barbara Hauser Mineral Collection on display in Tucson.
Carlsbad, Calif.--The Gemological Institute of America has a number of activities planned for attendees of the upcoming Tucson gem shows.
The GIA will be present at the American Gem Trade Association GemFair (Jan. 31 to Feb. 5) and the Tucson Gem and Mineral Show (Feb. 9 to 12), both of which take place at the Tucson Convention Center.
Highlights of its schedule for its time out in the desert is as follows.
GIA Show Service Laboratory
GIA will offer access to gem identification and country-of-origin services during the show. They will accept gemstones on-site at the AGTA GemFair, Monday, Jan. 30 to Sunday, Feb. 5.
Free GIA Seminars
“Rediscovering the Chivor Emerald Mine--In the Footsteps of Peter W. Rainier”
Wednesday, Feb. 1 from 1 to 2 p.m.
Manager of Photography and Visual Communications Robert Weldon will tell the tale of Peter W. Rainier, a South African who ran Colombia’s Chivor emerald mine in the 1920s.
“The Latest News from GIA Research”
Friday, Feb. 3 from 9 to 10 a.m.
Distinguished Research Fellow James Shigley will provide an update on its latest research on diamonds, colored stones and other timely topics of interest.
“Russia’s Treasure of Diamonds and Precious Stones”
Friday, Feb. 10 from 3:30 to 5 p.m.
Librarian Rose Tozer will talk about the significance of this rare 1925 catalog of Romanov jewels, as well as the library’s digitization project involving its rarest and most historically important works.
Education
The GIA will offer one fee-based lab class and two fee-based lecture/labs during AGTA GemFair. Pre-registration is required; call GIA admissions at 800-421-7250, ext. 4001 or 760-603-4001 to sign up.
GEM 240L Gem Identification Lab Class
Monday through Friday, Jan. 30 to Feb. 3, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
In this class, students will practice the same procedures and identification skills that the GIA’s gem experts use. They will use gemological instruments to practice identifying natural gemstones, imitations, assembled stones and lab-grown stones through hands-on training.
“Identifying Inclusions in Corundum and Emerald”
Saturday, Feb. 4, 9 a.m. to 11 a.m.
In this seminar, students will delve into the inclusions of specially chosen rubies, sapphires and emeralds. Through both a lecture and hands-on practice, they will look up close at gems from new sources, learn how to recognize certain types of inclusions, and understand how they help laboratory gemologists determine geologic origin, country of origin and potential treatments.
“Identifying Synthetic and Imitation Colored Stones”
Saturday, Feb. 4, 1 to 3 p.m.
This session is designed to
sharpen gem identification skills. Through both a lecture and hands-on practice with a microscope and a selection of “unusual synthetics and challenging new imitations,” students will learn the key identifying features to be able to detect these materials.
Museum and Library Exhibits
1. Synthetic Diamonds at AGTA GemFair
The GIA will display a variety of samples of diamonds grown by the HPHT and CVD methods, putting large colorless and colored rough HPHT, large colorless and colored faceted HPHT, rough CVD, faceted CVD, rough HPHT melee and faceted HPHT melee diamonds side-by-side with natural diamonds.
2. The Fersman Catalog at TGMS
The GIA library’s copy of “Russia’s Treasure of Diamonds and Precious Stones” by A.E. Fersman is one of the few surviving examples of a Bolshevik-era catalog of royal jewels that were seized during the Russian Revolution. The library will have a special display at TGMS for the catalog, including a historical figure of Catherine the Great and replicas of notable diamonds the Orlov and the Shah.
http://www.nationaljeweler.com/independents/ecommerce/4642-gia-library-digitizes-rare-jewelry-books
3. Highlights of the Hauser Collection at TGMS
GIA’s museum recently acquired a collection of ornamental minerals of exceptional size and quality from the Joel and Barbara Hauser Mineral Collection, many of which are from localities that either have restricted access or no longer are producing. At TGMS, attendees will be able to view 13 of the more than 60 specimens in the collection.
More information on the GIA’s Tucson schedule can be found on GIA.edu.
Museum and Library Exhibits
1. Synthetic Diamonds at AGTA GemFair
The GIA will display a variety of samples of diamonds grown by the HPHT and CVD methods, putting large colorless and colored rough HPHT, large colorless and colored faceted HPHT, rough CVD, faceted CVD, rough HPHT melee and faceted HPHT melee diamonds side-by-side with natural diamonds.
2. The Fersman Catalog at TGMS
The GIA library’s copy of “Russia’s Treasure of Diamonds and Precious Stones” by A.E. Fersman is one of the few surviving examples of a Bolshevik-era catalog of royal jewels that were seized during the Russian Revolution. The library will have a special display at TGMS for the catalog, including a historical figure of Catherine the Great and replicas of notable diamonds the Orlov and the Shah.
http://www.nationaljeweler.com/independents/ecommerce/4642-gia-library-digitizes-rare-jewelry-books
3. Highlights of the Hauser Collection at TGMS
GIA’s museum recently acquired a collection of ornamental minerals of exceptional size and quality from the Joel and Barbara Hauser Mineral Collection, many of which are from localities that either have restricted access or no longer are producing. At TGMS, attendees will be able to view 13 of the more than 60 specimens in the collection.
More information on the GIA’s Tucson schedule can be found on GIA.edu.
More on Events & Awards
The Latest
TrendsJul 10, 2026
Jade Trau Creates a Constellation of DiamondsThe “Constellation Plié” collar, our Piece of the Week, features diamonds arranged in a constellation of shining stars.
SourcingJul 10, 2026
CFO of De Beers’ Consumer-Facing Division Leaves Company Shaun Wills joined the company in 2024 and was chief financial officer of the De Beers Brands and Consumer Markets division.
Brought to you by
Wedding Band Trends 2026: Personalization Takes Center StageColored gemstones, artisan finishes, mixed metals, and meaningful details are shaping demand in bridal jewelry.
WatchesJul 10, 2026
Brilliant Earth Expands Into WatchesIn honor of its 20th anniversary, the jewelry brand has released a limited-edition collection of Swiss-made timepieces.
Weekly QuizJul 09, 2026
This Week’s QuizTest your jewelry news knowledge by answering these questions.
CollectionsJul 09, 2026
Boucheron’s New High Jewelry Collection Is an Ode to the Human Touch“Human Being” highlights the similarities and differences between us through five sets of jewelry that celebrate fine craftsmanship.
WatchesJul 09, 2026
Damiani Group Finalizes Acquisition of Baume & MercierRichemont will continue to provide operational services for the watch brand for a period while the group prepares to integrate it.
Brought to you by
Building the Future of Jewelry Retail: DCA Expands Education, Leadership Development, and Workforce SolutionsDCA is preparing the next generation of professionals by supporting workforce development, leadership growth, and career advancement.
AuctionsJul 09, 2026
Pharrell Williams’ Joopiter Hires Former Bonhams Exec to Head New Watch DivisionNate Borgelt will lead the digital auction house and content platform’s new division as head of watches.
MajorsJul 08, 2026
Kendra Scott Joins ‘Shark Tank’ As Permanent Investor The founder of the billion-dollar jewelry and lifestyle brand will debut as a full-time “Shark” on the upcoming season of the show.
SurveysJul 08, 2026
Signet Jewelers Falls 5 Spots on NRF’s ‘Top 100’ Retailers ListPlus, why retailers should be ready to adjust as the U.S. population may decline this year for the first time since the Great Depression.
CrimeJul 08, 2026
Here’s What Thieves Stole From the Lalique Museum René Lalique’s “Woman Dragonfly With Open Wings” pendant, the first piece the museum acquired, was one of the jewels taken.
MajorsJul 08, 2026
Richline Group Promotes 2 ExecsArien Gessner and Moss Makhoulian have been elevated into newly created roles.
ColumnistsJul 07, 2026
Peter Smith: Diamond Branding and the Origin ParadoxA podcast prompted Smith to share his views on where origin fits into the natural diamond story and the viability of branded diamonds.
Events & AwardsJul 07, 2026
JA Announces 2026 Impact Initiative RecipientsThe association selected eight recipients for the funding program, which is in its second year.
TrendsJul 07, 2026
Amanda’s Style File: Ruby, White and Blue Whether celebrating America’s 250th birthday or the USA’s World Cup run, July birthstone jewelry can double as a patriotic accessory.
CrimeJul 07, 2026
Thieves Steal Millions in Jewels From France’s Musée LaliqueAround 20 pieces of jewelry were stolen from the museum dedicated to French jeweler and glassmaker René Lalique.
CollectionsJul 07, 2026
Robinson Pelham Is Partying Like It’s 1996The “Summer of ’96” campaign and collection celebrate the year the brand was founded for its 30th anniversary.
SourcingJul 06, 2026
Gemfields CEO Sean Gilbertson Steps DownAfter eight years, Gilbertson is leaving his post at the mining company, which is currently facing a slew of operational challenges.
IndependentsJul 06, 2026
Bachendorf’s To Open Fifth Store In DallasThe new location is set to open this winter, featuring the retailer’s first rotating jewelry designer residency.
MajorsJul 06, 2026
Graff Names BTS Star Jung Kook as New AmbassadorThe pop artist appears in the latest campaign for the “Laurence Graff Signature” collection.
CollectionsJul 06, 2026
Pandora’s New Baroque Pearl Collection Is a Whimsical ‘Wonder’One-of-a-kind pearls take the shape of ice cream cones, frogs, submarines, and other imaginative charms.
SourcingJul 02, 2026
London Diamond Bourse Elects First Female PresidentCharlotte Rose said her election is “a sign that this is an industry capable of change.”
Supplier BulletinJul 02, 2026
Elevating Retail Showcases with Today's Necklace & Bracelet TrendsSponsored by Rio Grande Jewelry Supply
TrendsJul 02, 2026
Oscar Heyman’s Flag Brooch Celebrates AmericaThe American jewelry house, founded by Latvian immigrants, has been creating American flag brooches since 1917.
IndependentsJul 02, 2026
D. Geller & Son Partners with KSU Art Students on Store MuralThe artwork celebrates the Atlanta jeweler’s legacy and symbolizes its commitment to supporting local artists and its community.
Events & AwardsJul 02, 2026
Stratus Estate Buyers Offers Jewelers Turnkey Buying EventsIts team can evaluate jewelry and watches, as well as luxury handbags, artwork, and collectibles.
