Audiences in Myanmar will have the opportunity to hear from GIA (Gemological Institute of America) experts during the first-ever Gemstone Gathering in Mandalay on Jan. 30. The free networking and informational event will take place from 2 p.m. until 7:45 p.m. and will include exclusive seminars, dinner and much more.

An 83-year old public-benefit organization dedicated to ensuring the public trust in gem and jewelry purchases, GIA is globally recognized for its education, research discoveries and laboratory services. The event will include a “lucky draw,” a coffee break and dinner, and an information booth for queries about GIA education and lab services. Presentations scheduled:

• Claudia D’Andrea, GIA’s director of education in Bangkok, will discuss “How to Study with GIA”
• Pairach Nalinthrangkurn, GIA’s operations manager for the laboratory in Bangkok, will cover “Getting to Know GIA Lab Reports”
• Vincent Pardieu, GIA’s senior manager of field gemology, will present on “Rubies From Amphibole Related Deposits in Africa”
• Gaston Giuliani, research director for The Institute of Research for Development in France, will discuss “The Geology and Genesis of Gem Corundum Deposits”

GIA’s Gemstone Gathering in Mandalay will be held on Jan. 30 at the Grand Ballroom (first floor) of the Mandalay Hill Resort Hotel in Mandalay, Myanmar. Registration will open at 2 p.m. For reservations, email tchaw@gia.edu or pkosolsu@gia.edu or call +6626324090 ext 604.

For more information about GIA, visit www.giathai.net