Chris Blakeslee has experience at Athleta and Alo Yoga. Kendra Scott will remain on board as executive chair and chief visionary officer.
GIA’s Career Fair, Open House Set for October
It will take place on Friday, Oct. 11 at GIA’s global headquarters in Carlsbad, California.

Carlsbad, Calif.—The Gemological Institute of America will hold a career fair and open house at its global headquarters in Carlsbad, California this fall.
Scheduled for Friday, Oct. 11, the free event has panel discussions; career coaching and recruiting for those new to the industry as well as veterans looking for a career change; classroom gemology demonstrations; and museum exhibitions on the splendor and beauty of gems.
The day kicks off with two panel discussions.
“Job Success in Today’s Market” is scheduled for 8:45 to 10 a.m.
Moderated by GIA President and CEO Susan M. Jacques, panelists for this session include: Mitchell Binder of King Baby, Calhoun Jewelers owner Cathy Calhoun, American Gem Trade Association CEO Doug Hucker and Meghan Simmons with Omi Privé.
From 10:30 a.m. to noon is “Creative Careers” moderated by Mark Smelzer, publisher of JCK magazine and JCKonline.com.
This conversation will focus on unique careers with panelists Baba Blumkin of Luxe Jewelry and Loan, Wade Clar of Julez Bryant, jewelry designer Alexandra Hart and Jenny Luker, president of Platinum Guild International USA.
In addition, the day will include the chance for job seekers to connect with recruiters from local and global brands including Brilliant Earth, The RealReal and Diamonds Direct. Employers interested in recruiting at this year’s event can sign up online.
They also can visit the Richard T. Liddicoat Gemological Library and Information Center, which includes the Cartier Rare Book Repository.
The Jewelry Career Fair and Open House is the one time of year when the public can visit GIA headquarters without a prior appointment; visiting hours are 8 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.
For more information and/or to register, visit GIA’s website. Interested parties can also follow @GIANews #JewelryJobs on Twitter for updates.
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