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Press Release: The Gemmological Association of Great Britain (Gem-A) has announced it will be reviving its field trip program, at the request of its members, with a gemological field trip to Idar-Oberstein, from June 21 to 28, 2014.
Over the course of seven days, Gem-A will organize a coach for 25 attendees to get closer to the source and give them a unique opportunity to visit museums, mines, the German gemological institute, lapidaries and so much more. During the week-long trip, the group will visit the Edelsteinminen Steinkaulenberg, Kupferbergwerk in Fischbach, DGemG, Schneider gem tools, Deutsches Mineralienmuseum and Historische Weiherschleife, while also getting the chance to sample the very best of German small-town culture, surrounded by various lapidaries and gem workshops.
As one of the best-known cutting centers for gems in Europe, Idar-Oberstein has a long history in the gem trade, spanning well over a century. The small German town has stood as a European center for superior technologies in the chemical process of dyeing agates and other gemstones and it may come as no surprise that by the early 20th century, Idar-Oberstein counted 150 cutting shops making anything from agate goblets to beads. Today, Idar-Oberstein has opened up its doors to world gem traders, making it a European hub for gem dealers around the globe and the birthplace of some of the most talented cutters and designers of the 21st century.
Gem-A's marketing and events manager, Amandine Rongy, who has arranged the trip in collaboration with Gem-A members Debora Mazza and Sharon Dale, said, “The trip is a great way for members of the gem community to come together and experience a different side of the industry. Gemologists often like to look at the final pieces of beautifully cut and polished stones, but it’s rare that we ever get the chance to see the processes involved in getting these stones from mine to market. This trip will be a great way of introducing working gemologists to this side of the industry, whilst also expanding their experience and overseas connections.”
Gem-A's CEO, James Riley, said, “Our role as an association and an educational charity is to try our best to provide opportunities and support to all members, whatever their needs. This field trip is just one example of how Gem-A is looking to allow members to have more of a say over how their association is run and what they get from their membership. We previously ran an active program of field trips, which saw members go as far afield as places like Australia and Madagascar, and we hope this trip will signal the return to a vibrant field trip program over the coming years.”
Prices for the field trip start from about $2,100 (GBP 1,250) for all travel, two meals a day, entrance to the various trips and workshops as well as accommodations. For a full list of prices and trip details, visit the Gem-A News & Events pages or contact Rongy through email at events(at)gem-a.com.
About Gem-A
The Gemmological Association of Great Britain, or Gem-A, a London-based educational charity, is the world’s longest established provider of gem education and a membership organization that forms an international community of gem professionals and enthusiasts. Gem-A seeks to serve the best interests of the gem and jewelry industries worldwide through its commitment to supporting gemological research and high educational and trade standards. For information see, www.gem-a.com.
To find out more about Gem-A in general, please follow us on Twitter: @GemAofGB or via Facebook: fb.com/GemAofGB
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