Chris Blakeslee has experience at Athleta and Alo Yoga. Kendra Scott will remain on board as executive chair and chief visionary officer.
GIA to Hold Sixth Gemological Symposium in Oct. 2018
The three-day event will take place at its Carlsbad, California, headquarters with the theme of “New Challenges. Creating Opportunities.”
Carlsbad, Calif.--The Gemological Institute of America has announced that it will hold its sixth International Gemological Symposium next fall.
The three-day event is scheduled to take place at its Carlsbad, California, headquarters from Oct. 7 to 9, 2018.
It will be centered on a theme of “New Challenges. Creating Opportunities.” and offer insight into the latest gemological research, including recent findings by the GIA and other researchers.
The symposium also will feature professors from the Harvard Business School to lead a track on business concepts and innovations, using the case-study method that is employed in all of the school’s programs, including the annual GIA Global Leadership Program.
Additionally, the symposium will celebrate the centennial of Richard T. Liddicoat, who was the second president of the GIA and is known as the “father of modern gemology.”
The GIA said it expects further details on the event, including other speakers, registration details and tiered options for participation in the Harvard-led business track, to be available this September.
The institute held its first International Gemological Symposium in 1982 in Los Angeles to mark its 50th anniversary. There were four more after that--1991, 1999, 2006 and 2011--all of which brought together leaders and experts from all sectors of the gem and jewelry trade for presentations, panels and discussions on relevant issues and topics affecting the industry.
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.

Founded by jeweler and sculptor Ana Khouri, the brand is “expanding the boundaries of what high jewelry can be.”

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

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

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.

The trade show is slated for Jan. 31-Feb. 2 at The Lighthouse in New York City's Chelsea neighborhood.

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

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.

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.






















