Chris Blakeslee has experience at Athleta and Alo Yoga. Kendra Scott will remain on board as executive chair and chief visionary officer.
Treatments, Synthetics at Center of Sept. GemWorld Conference
The two-day World of Gems event is geared toward manufacturers, retail jewelers, appraisers and gemologists.
Glenview, Ill.--A few of the industry’s hottest current topics--gem treatments, undisclosed synthetic stones and the challenges they present to the market--will be discussed at an upcoming event hosted by GemWorld International.
At its World of Gems Conference V slated for next month, renowned researcher Emmanuel Fritsch will present “Synthetic Diamonds Are Not That Hard to Identify, HPHT Treated Ones Are,” addressing the fact that while labs can identify synthetic diamonds with relative ease, identifying mined diamonds that are color enhanced by one or more treatment methods is challenging.
Industry experts also will touch on why the current slate of inexpensive “testers” being offered for sale to the trade likely aren’t the answer to accurate identification of synthetic diamonds, GemWorld said.
World of Gems Conference V will be held at the Loews Chicago O’Hare Hotel (formerly the Intercontinental) in Rosemont, Illinois, on Sept. 23 and 24.
It offers content geared toward manufacturers, retail jewelers, appraisers and gemologists, presenting the latest original gemological research and information, gemological education and current topics and market trends.
The two-day event will include such sessions as “The Jades of Burma” by Roland Schlussel of Pillar & Stone International, “Treasure from Trash: Identifying the Value in Gemstones Recovered from Scrap” by Kerry Gregory of Gemmology Rocks, “State of the Natural Color Diamond Market” by Alan Bronstein of Aurora Gems, “Paint it Black: Black Gem Challenges” by Cigdem Lule of Gemworld and “Pricing Challenges” with Richard Drucker, president of Gemworld, among others.
It also is book-ended by three days of additional-fee workshops.
The price of admission is $425 for GemGuide subscribers and $495 for non-subscribers.
For more information, a full schedule or to register, visit GemGuide.com.
The Latest

The credit card companies’ surveys examined where consumers shopped, what they bought, and what they valued this holiday season.

Kimberly Miller has been promoted to the role.

How Jewelers of America’s 20 Under 40 are leading to ensure a brighter future for the jewelry industry.

The “Serenity” charm set with 13 opals is a modern amulet offering protection, guidance, and intention, the brand said.


“Bridgerton” actresses Hannah Dodd and Claudia Jessie star in the brand’s “Rules to Love By” campaign.

The jewelry manufacturer and supplier is going with a fiery shade it says symbolizes power and transformation.

Roseco’s 704-page catalog showcases new lab-grown diamonds, findings, tools & more—available in print or interactive digital editions.

The singer-songwriter will make her debut as the French luxury brand’s new ambassador in a campaign for its “Coco Crush” jewelry line.

The nonprofit’s new president and CEO, Annie Doresca, also began her role this month.

As the shopping mall model evolves and online retail grows, Smith shares his predictions for the future of physical stores.

January’s birthstone comes in a rainbow of colors, from the traditional red to orange, purple, and green.

The annual report highlights how it supported communities in areas where natural diamonds are mined, crafted, and sold.

Footage of a fight breaking out in the NYC Diamond District was viewed millions of times on Instagram and Facebook.

The supplier has a curated list of must-have tools for jewelers doing in-house custom work this year.

The Signet Jewelers-owned store, which turned 100 last year, calls its new concept stores “The Edit.”

Linda Coutu is rejoining the precious metals provider as its director of sales.

The governing board welcomed two new members, Claire Scragg and Susan Eisen.

Sparkle with festive diamond jewelry as we celebrate the beginning of 2026.

The master jeweler, Olympian, former senator, and Korean War veteran founded the brand Nighthorse Jewelry.

In its annual report, Pinterest noted an increase in searches for brooches, heirloom jewelry, and ‘80s luxury.

Executive Chairman Richard Baker will take over the role as rumors swirl that a bankruptcy filing is imminent for the troubled retailer.

Mohr had just retired in June after more than two decades as Couture’s retailer liaison.

Shekhar Shah of Real Gems Inc. will serve as president of the Indian Diamond & Colorstone Association in 2026.

This year’s good luck charm features the mythical horse Pegasus, and is our first Piece of the Week of the new year.

Articles about crime, engagement rings, and a necklace worn in the World Series generated the most interest among readers.

As part of the leadership transition, Sherry Smith will take on the role of vice president of coaching strategy and development.






















