The Gem-A Conference 2023: bringing together the greatest minds in gemmology


Gemmologists from around the world will gather in London to attend the annual Gem-A Conference. The Conference boasts an incredible line-up of speakers including expert gemmologists from every area of the field. It is a must-attend Conference for anyone interested in gemmology.


What to expect:


  • Experience an exceptional line-up of 6 distinguished speakers representing diverse areas of gemmology.
  • Connect with industry leaders during Conference breaks.
  • Indulge in a memorable Sunday evening gala dinner at the magnificent Tower of London.
  • Expand your knowledge base through engaging sessions led by expert speakers and fellow delegates.
  • Immerse yourself in a wealth of knowledge as you learn from our expert speakers and engage with fellow delegates.
  • Elevate your experience with exclusive workshops and curated trips for two days, granting you access to private viewings and unique insights.

Save the date: Sunday 5 November with trips and workshops taking place from Monday 6 November.


Conference Speakers

  • Wenhao Yu
  • Dr. Emmanuel Fritsch
  • Sally Magana
  • Mike De Wit
  • Andy H. Shen
  • Edward Boehm

  • Wenhao Yu

    Enjoy or invest? Gemstones under the loupe in the post pandemic auctions

    In the post-pandemic era, where customer experience reigns supreme, collectors across various groups demonstrate a pronounced trend towards personalising their jewellery collections, especially when it comes to gemstones. The objective behind their collections has become more distinct than ever. The value of gemstones, too, has been assigned multiple interpretations. As collectors, is the focus on the enjoyment of possession or the prospect of investment? As insiders in the industry, do we chase the currents of fashion or adhere to the anchor of tradition? Wenhao will present his insights on the transformation of the jewellery auction he had directed amidst challenging circumstances, highlighting potential opportunities for sustainable growth.

  • Dr. Emmanuel Fritsch

    WHY ARE SOME MINERALS GEM QUALITY? THE GEM FACTOR

    Why some minerals provide on occasion gem-quality crystals, whereas most crystals of the same species remain not gemmy? Many of the secrets of the gem factor are actually related to the laws of crystal growth. A few seeds, growth interface stability, and especially “slow” spiral dislocation growth are key factors. They lead to probably surprisingly quick growth of large gem crystals, with of course some exceptions, some dear to gemologists. Other conditions must combine with those already cited, depending on the gem varieties, so there is not one single recipe, but a range of possibilities to explore

  • Sally Magana

    Laboratory-grown diamonds: Established technology and new horizons

    Diamonds are extraordinary materials that possess the highest hardness, atomic density, and thermal conductivity of any natural material on Earth. Their singular combination of properties make diamonds significant in the technology sector, but also produce the beauty and sparkle that make them among the most sought-after gems. The demand for such a versatile and valuable material has led to rapid advancements in diamond growth technology in the last two decades. GIA senior research scientist, Dr. Sally Magana, explores HPHT and CVD diamond growth processes, the recent trends of laboratory-grown diamonds seen at GIA, and the identification methods which reliably distinguish these gems from their natural counterparts.

  • Mike De Wit

    Economically important alluvial diamond deposits, with a focus on South Africa

    After the first diamonds were reported from the Orange and Vaal Rivers in South Africa in late 1860s, it did not take long for the early prospectors to locate diamond-bearing kimberlite sources in the Kimberley area. When the kimberlite source rocks were discovered early diamond mines such as the De Beers Mine, Kimberley Mine, Bultfontein and Jagersfontein started producing, the diamond industry in South Africa took off and evolved as one of the main pillars of the economy. Progressive improvements in mining and recovery technologies have enabled small and medium sized miners to operate lower grade deposits, thereby extending the life of mine of many alluvial deposits along the rivers in South Africa considerably - a business that has been ongoing for some 150 years. In this talk examples of several alluvial operations will be presented, and put in a geological context. Furthermore, the economic value of these deposits will also be highlighted.

  • Andy H. Shen

    Application of Machine Learning Algorithms in Gemstone Provenance Research:Peridot as an Example

    As the world is swept by the flood of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and other fancy computer technological terms such as “machine learning” and “Generative pre-trained transformer (GPT)” etc, the gemstone community cannot stop thinking “how will all these affecting us?” Unfortunately, I do not possess the ability of gazing into the crystal ball nor did I take the class of “divination” in “Hogswarts”, so I cannot give an answer to that question. Nevertheless, application of the “machine learning algorithms” to solve various scientific problems is flourishing in all disciplines of science and technology. We studied the trace element geochemistry of peridots from different provenance and attempted to separate the country of origins of these peridots by applying six different machine learning algorithms. In this talk, I will briefly outline the idea of “machine learning” and the algorithms that we applied. By combining geochemical knowledge with these modern algorithms, the ability of separating different provenance of peridots improved. This line of research is still on-going and I surely expect to see more to come in the not-too-far future.

    *Sponsored by Fuli Gemstones

  • Edward Boehm

    How to navigate and succeed as a field gemmologist and mineralogist in a rapidly changing world?

    Edward Boehm, a distinguished colored stone dealer and consultant hailing from Chattanooga, Tennessee. With a lifelong passion for crystals and gems, Edward's journey in gemmology began in Switzerland, mentored by his grandfather, Edward J. Gübelin. After graduating in Geology and German from UNC, Chapel Hill, he earned his Graduate Gemologist diploma from the GIA in 1988, followed by the prestigious Certified Gemologist title from the AGS in 1992. His extensive expertise also includes completing the SSEF advanced laboratory gemology course under the guidance of Prof. Henry Hänni in 1998. Mr. Boehm has left his mark in the field through numerous authored and co-authored articles in esteemed publications like Gems and Gemology and the Journal of Gemmology, in addition to being an active member of their editorial review boards. His insights have been featured in renowned magazines such as JCK, Colored Stone, Professional Jeweler, Modern Jeweler, and many more. He is also a sought-after consultant and buyer, regularly traveling to mining localities worldwide.




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Reasons to attend


  • Engage with an inspiring lineup of 6 international speakers hailing from diverse areas of gemmology, offering valuable insights and expertise.
  • Unlock networking opportunities with distinguished speakers and delegates, fostering connections that can propel your career in gemmology.
  • Immerse yourself in immersive in-person learning experiences led by world-renowned gemmology professionals, expanding your knowledge and expertise.
  • Experience the prestigious Gem-A Conference Dinner on Sunday evening at the Historic Tower of London, a delightful celebration bringing together gemmology enthusiasts from around the world.
  • Explore an exciting selection of tours and workshops on Monday, November 6 and Tuesday, November 7, providing exclusive access to private viewings and hands-on learning opportunities.

Highlights from 2022


When?

5 November 2023

Where?

etc.venues County Hall, Belvedere Road, SE1 7PB


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Registration Fees

conference 2023 fees

 

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What to expect:

  • Showcase your brand at the world's most prestigious Gemmology Conference.
  • Reach a captive audience of gemmology enthusiasts.
  • Engage the next generation of gemmologists.
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CONTACT US

If you are organising a gemmological event, let us know! Email: events@gem-a.com    .