Author: Angela Oliffe

In a strategic move for the gem and jewelry industry, two principal events, the American Gem Society’s (AGS) Conclave and the Gemological Institute of America’s (GIA) Symposium, will merge into a new event titled ‘Converge’. Scheduled for September 7-10, 2025, this unified event aims to bring together key elements of education, networking, and research.Event Details and LocationThe event will combine AGS’s emphasis on professional development and networking with GIA’s expertise in education and research. Converge is set to take place in Carlsbad, CA, at the GIA world headquarters and the Omni La Costa Resort. Further details regarding the program, registration,…

The American Gem Society (AGS) has awarded its inaugural Women in Leadership Scholarship to Amber Rank of Exclusively Diamonds in Mankato, Minnesota. This initiative by AGS underscores its commitment to fostering the growth and development of future female leaders within the jewelry industry.Scholarship Benefits and OpportunitiesAmber Rank will benefit from a fully funded registration to the AGS 2024 Conclave, scheduled to take place in Austin, Texas, from April 15–17. The scholarship package also includes a $500 gift card, with one of the key features of the scholarship is the opportunity for mentorship. Rank will be paired with an industry leader whose…

The Accredited Gemologists Association (AGA) has announced the availability of its Gemological Education Scholarship and Gemological Research Grant for 2024, marking the association’s 50th anniversary. This initiative is part of AGA’s efforts to support individuals interested in gemology, offering financial assistance to eligible candidates worldwide.Scholarship and Grant OverviewThe AGA Gemological Education Scholarship is designed for individuals globally who are aiming to further their education in gemology. The scholarship, which can provide up to $5,000, is based on both need and merit, intended to cover only tuition and practical class fees. These funds are paid directly to the educational institutions. The…

The Gemological Institute of America (GIA) has once again spotlighted the exceptional abilities of its jewelry design students through the Gianmaria Buccellati Foundation Award for Excellence in Jewelry Design. This year marks the seventh iteration of this prestigious competition, which aims to recognize and foster talent in the field of jewelry design across the globe. The recent celebration took place during the GIA Alumni Collective event in Tucson, Arizona, where Suhan Wang, a distinguished graduate from the GIA school in Taipei, was honoured with the award.“On behalf of the Gianmaria Buccellati Foundation and Rosa Maria Buccellati, we want to congratulate…

Have you ever thought about how symbols connect us to our past, especially those that have endured through the ages? The Tree of Life is one such symbol, deeply rooted in Celtic tradition and bridging the gap between the ancient and the modern. This emblem, rich with meaning and history, isn’t just found in old texts or carvings but is also a popular motif in today’s jewelry, symbolizing our link to ancestry and the natural world.The Symbolism of the Celtic Tree of LifeThe Celtic Tree of Life, or Crann Bethadh, symbolizes growth, rebirth, and interconnectedness. Its branches stretch upwards, its…

The Gemological Institute of America (GIA) has announced the launch of its updated Graduate Jeweler Diploma Program, set to commence in 2024. The program aims to provide a comprehensive education in jewelry manufacturing, combining foundational technical knowledge with an emphasis on creative expression and practical industry application.Curriculum DetailsThe 28-week program is meticulously crafted to cover both fine jewelry manufacturing and retail jewelry repair. It is designed as a project-based course, allowing students to build a portfolio that showcases their skills and creativity. The curriculum includes traditional jewelry fabrication, recognized as a fundamental aspect of jewelry making. Students will learn essential…

Signet Jewelers Ltd., the world’s largest diamond jewelry retailer, has announced a renewed commitment of $100 million to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. This pledge comes as a continuation of the 25-year partnership between Signet and St. Jude, during which Signet has already raised $100 million to support children battling cancer and other life-threatening diseases.The additional $100 million is targeted to further enhance research and treatment efforts with the goal of increasing childhood cancer survival rates. Virginia C. Drosos, CEO of Signet Jewelers, stated, “We are honored to support the lifesaving research and care that St. Jude delivers to patients…

The Natural Diamond Council (NDC) has launched its latest global campaign, “To Treasure Now and Forever,” which emphasizes the beauty, uniqueness, and adaptability of natural diamonds. The 2023/2024 campaign features actress Lily James, who has taken on the role of global ambassador for the NDC. The campaign, shot in New York City by renowned photographer Cass Bird, showcases James in four distinct looks, each complemented by a range of natural diamonds. These looks aim to highlight the diamond’s versatility, demonstrating its fit with casual streetwear, sophisticated evening attire, power tailoring, and glamorous outfits for standout occasions.A Word from the NDCDavid…

Danish juggernaut Pandora’s recent announcements have shed light on its ambitious expansion plans, with a particular emphasis on the “Phoenix” turnaround strategy initiated in 2021. This strategy has been pivotal in reshaping the company’s approach to the market. CEO Andrew Lacik reflected on the transformative journey, stating, “Looking back at the past few years, we are proud of our achievements. We have fundamentally changed how we work, and the organization is much stronger.”Financial Aspirations: Setting the Bar HighDespite a challenging landscape in the broader jewelry market, Pandora has managed to carve out a significant niche in the US – the…

Set to be the centerpiece of the Magnificent Jewels auction on 07 November at Christie’s Geneva, the ‘Bleu Royal’ diamond is making waves in the jewelry world. With a weight of 17.61 carats, it stands as the largest Internally Flawless Fancy Vivid Blue gem ever to be presented at an auction.The diamond’s allure isn’t just in its size. It has been meticulously cut and polished into a symmetrical pear shape, boasting a rich vivid blue hue and impeccable purity. Such characteristics place the ‘Bleu Royal’ among the rarest diamonds ever discovered. Its estimated value ranges between US$35–50 Million. For the…