Second World Emerald Symposium Scheduled for October

Bogotá, Colombia—Following the success of the first World Emerald Symposium in October 2015, the Fedesmeraldas National Emerald Trade Association has scheduled a second event for this fall.

The second World Emerald Symposium will be held from Oct. 12 to 14 at the Grand Hyatt Hotel in Bogotá, Colombia.

So far, event organizers have confirmed the attendance of delegates from 25 countries and the participation of eight emerald-producing countries: Afghanistan, Brazil, Colombia, Ethiopia, Madagascar, Pakistan, Russia and Zambia.

The three-day event will delve into the challenges and opportunities the emerald industry faces, featuring presentations by more than 60 speakers and experts, panel discussions, working groups and hands-on training.

Topics will focus on the challenges related to mining and geology, gemology and laboratory testing, harmonization of color names and practices, consumer education and awareness, corporate social responsibility, traceability, compliance, ethics, sustainability, and branding and marketing, as well as discussions about the new technologies, such as blockchain, that are impacting the emerald industry.

Among the speakers are representatives from the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD), Responsible Jewellery Council and Dubai Multi-Commodities Center as well as from global luxury brands like Van Cleef & Arpels.

Major trade associations from across the world also will be in attendance—including the International Colored Gemstone Association, World Jewellery Confederation (CIBJO), Thai Gem & Jewelry Traders Association, China’s National Gemstone Testing Center, Gemstone Association of China (GAC), India’s Gem & Jewellery Export Promotion Council—as well the world’s foremost gemological laboratories.

Tours of Colombia’s important mining areas also have been organized.

Fedesmeraldas, the Colombian Emerald Federation, is organizing the event with the support of the Emerald Producers Association (APRECOL), the Emerald Exporters Association (ACODES), the Emerald Dealers Association (Asocoemeral) and the Ministry of Mines.

Sponsors include Mineria Texas Colombia, Emeraldas de Santa Rosa and Fura Gems.

Visit the jewelry event’s website for more information or to register.