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GIA Gemological Symposium

GIA (Gemological Institute of America) will convene its sixth International Gemological Symposium in Carlsbad, California to feature science and business tracks; participation by Harvard Business School Focused on the theme “New Challenges. Creating Opportunities” the three-day event will offer insight into the latest gemological research including recent findings by GIA and other leading researchers. Professors from the Harvard Business School (HBS) will lead a track on business concepts and innovations, using the renowned case-study method employed in all HBS programs, including the annual GIA Global Leadership Program. The Symposium will also celebrate the centennial of Richard T. Liddicoat, the beloved

Mark Buntz Joins GIA as SVP and Chief Marketing Officer

The GIA (Gemological Institute of America) has appointed Mark Buntz as senior vice president and chief marketing officer to lead all global marketing efforts and drive the future of the GIA brand. Buntz will support the expansion of GIA’s education, laboratory services – including the new GIA Diamond Origin Report – and instruments business into new markets and extend GIA’s 4Cs of Diamond Quality consumer outreach program. He succeeds Kathryn Kimmel, who retired in August after 30 years with GIA. “Mark brings invaluable expertise with leading companies which have reached pinnacles of success in their fields,” said Susan Jacques, GIA

GIA Demonstrates Prototype Mounted Gem Testing Device

The GIA have announced their intention to introduce for sale later this year an easy-to-operate, sophisticated desktop instrument to reliably identify natural diamonds, separating them from all simulants and from diamonds that may be synthetic or treated. The GIA mounted gem testing device combines advanced spectroscopic technology; GIA’s extensive research into the qualities of natural, treated and synthetic diamonds; and decades of diamond analysis experience to identify more than 97% of untreated natural mounted and un-mounted D-to-Z diamonds 0.9 mm or greater in diameter (approximately 0.005 carat). Diamonds that may be synthetic or treated and all simulants are referred

Appointment: Edward Johnson Joins The Responsible Jewellery Council As Director Of Business Development

Edward Johnson joins the Responsible Jewellery Council (RJC) as Director of Business Development to expand its expertise and drive growth for the organisation, strengthening its influence and reputation across the jewellery industry. Edward joins the team at the RJC from the Gemological Institute of America (GIA) where he worked to establish GIA’s presence in the UK and further expand it across Europe from 2015 as Director of Business Development. He brings a wealth of experience and enthusiasm to his new role at the RJC. Prior to his time with GIA, Edward, a Graduate Gemologist, ran an independent jewellery appraisal company

PRESS RELEASE: The 2025 Valuers' Conference Delivered Education and Community in Equal Measure

Jewellery valuers, students, international guests and wider trade joined together in Birmingham last weekend (7-8 June) for two days of learning and networking for the National Association of Jewellers (NAJ) Valuers' Conference, hosted by the Institute of Registered Valuers (IRV). The 36th Valuers Conference, supported by headline sponsor Bonhams, saw international and UK experts share their wisdom and expertise on Saturday. These included… Kate Flitcroft shared insights from a distinguished auction career, reflecting on her experiences at Bonhams and what they reveal about jewellery valuation today. Dr Aaron Palke explored the latest GIA research into coloured stone origin

Mehdi Saadian Appointed NAJ Vice Chair

The National Association of Jewellers (NAJ) is delighted to announce the appointment of Mehdi Saadian, Director of the GIA London campus, as the new Vice Chair of the NAJ. A distinguished member of the jewellery and valuation profession, Mehdi is an active member of the Institute of Registered Valuers (IRV) and the Academy of Experts. He has played a significant role in the NAJ's National Committee since joining in 2022, contributing to simplifying, standardising and visualising the governance model of the Association. Mehdi will succeed Adam Jacobs as Chair in 2026. Commenting on his new role, Mehdi shared, "I'm truly honoured to take