The Sixth Mediterranean Gemmological & Jewellery Conference (MGJC), a cornerstone event in the global gem and jewelry industry, is set to convene in the historic city of Thessaloniki, Greece, from May 15-17. This highly anticipated gathering promises an unparalleled exploration into the intricate world of ‘Valuation and Marketing Of Diamonds And Gems’, a theme critically relevant in today’s evolving market. As the industry navigates unprecedented changes, the MGJC stands as a vital platform for professionals to gain insights, share expertise, and collaboratively address the most pressing challenges and opportunities facing the sector.
Since its inception in 2015, the Mediterranean Gemmological & Jewellery Conference has steadily grown in stature and influence, attracting a diverse cohort of leading experts, innovative thinkers, and dedicated professionals from across the globe. This year’s event in Thessaloniki is expected to continue this tradition, fostering an environment of rich discussion, advanced learning, and meaningful networking. Attendees will delve into the multifaceted aspects of gem valuation and marketing, equipped with the latest knowledge and tools to thrive in a competitive landscape.
The core of the 2020 conference will be its comprehensive focus on ‘Valuation and Marketing Of Diamonds And Gems’. This overarching theme reflects the dynamic nature of the gem and jewelry market, which demands sophisticated valuation techniques and innovative marketing strategies. Professionals are constantly challenged by the emergence of new materials, treatment methods, and evolving consumer preferences. The conference will provide a crucial forum to dissect these complexities, offering practical solutions and forward-thinking approaches. Participants will explore everything from traditional grading standards to the nuances of appraising unique or treated stones, alongside cutting-edge marketing tactics designed to resonate with contemporary consumers.
In addition to compelling plenary sessions, the conference will feature seven parallel workshops, offering hands-on learning experiences and in-depth explorations of specialized topics. These workshops are designed to provide practical skills and insights, catering to both foundational and advanced levels of expertise. Conference Chair Branko Deljanin emphasized the event’s commitment to equipping trade members with tangible solutions. “As with previous conferences, the 2020 event will spotlight trade issues and challenges and offer solutions via many workshops with standard and advanced affordable instruments and presentations by a range of leading industry figures,” said Deljanin. “We will welcome trade members from across the world to compare the wide range of the latest treated and synthetic diamonds and gems to natural stones, fostering a holistic understanding of the market.” These workshops promise to be invaluable for gemmologists, appraisers, retailers, and anyone seeking to enhance their practical knowledge and operational efficiency.
Distinguished Speakers and Industry Luminaries
A hallmark of the Mediterranean Gemmological & Jewellery Conference is its roster of world-class speakers, each a luminary in their respective field. This year’s lineup represents a broad spectrum of expertise, from academic research and laboratory analysis to industry innovation and market insights. Their collective knowledge will enrich the conference, providing attendees with diverse perspectives and cutting-edge information.
The distinguished speakers include:
- Adeline Lageder (Gemmologisches Labor, Austria)
- Dr Vera M. F. Hammer (Natural History Museum Vienna, Austria)
- Elena Deljanin (Gemmological Research Industries Inc., Canada)
- Dr Olga Okhrimenko (Octonus, Finland)
- Reuven Paikin (Almod Diamonds, USA)
- Branko Deljanin (CGL Canadian Gemlab, Canada)
- Kelly E. Hassen (Gemometrics, Sweden)
- Jeffrey Bergman (Primagem, Thailand)
- Dr Yuri Shelementiev (Moscow State University, Russia)
- Dr Stefanos Karampelas (Bahrain Institute for Pearls & Gemstones, DANAT, Bahrain)
- Gina D’Onofrio (Heritage Auctions, USA Challenges)
- Matthias Krismer (Swarovski, Austria)
These experts will deliver presentations covering a wide array of topics, from advanced gem identification techniques and the latest developments in diamond treatments to market trends, ethical sourcing, and the strategic marketing of precious stones. Their contributions are designed to empower attendees with the knowledge needed to navigate the complexities of today’s gem and jewelry industry effectively.
The Crucial ‘Round Table Duel’: Marketing Lab-Grown Diamonds
Following a day of intensive lectures and workshops, a special event dubbed the “Round Table Duel” will take center stage. This highly anticipated debate will address one of the most significant and often contentious issues in the contemporary gem industry: “How should lab-grown diamonds and gems be marketed, alongside naturals?” The rise of lab-grown diamonds has presented both immense opportunities and considerable challenges for the traditional jewelry market, necessitating clear and effective marketing strategies that respect both categories of stones.
The panel will feature prominent industry figures, including Michael Schlamindger (Swarovski, Austria) and Mark Cullinan (Cullinan Diamonds, Monaco), moderated by John Chapman (Gemetrix, Australia). This “duel” promises a lively and insightful discussion on best practices, consumer perception, ethical considerations, and the future coexistence of natural and laboratory-created gems in the global marketplace. The debate is crucial for shaping industry standards and ensuring transparency and consumer confidence as both categories vie for market share.
A Legacy of Excellence: The Conference’s Journey and Impact
The 2020 conference builds upon the remarkable success of its five predecessors, further cementing its reputation as a premier event for gemmological and jewelry professionals. Each year, the conference has expanded its reach and enhanced its content, responding to the evolving needs of the industry. The previous year’s event, held in Limassol, Cyprus, drew an impressive 75 participants from 27 countries, representing a diverse cross-section of the industry, including gemmologists, jewellers, retailers, appraisers, dealers, and representatives from gem labs, manufacturing firms, and mining companies.
The Mediterranean Conferences have journeyed across picturesque and historically rich locations, beginning in Greece (2015), then moving to Spain (2016), Italy (2017), and Montenegro (2018). This strategic rotation allows attendees to experience different regional markets and cultural nuances, enriching their overall professional development. The conferences are meticulously organized by Branko Deljanin of CGL Canadian Gemlab (Canada) and George Spyromilios of IGL (Greece). Their vision combines a unique mixture of crucial business insights, practical appraising conferences, and highly scientific seminars, creating a holistic educational experience that is unmatched in the industry.
Strategic Partnerships and Industry Support
The success and broad appeal of the Mediterranean Gemmological & Jewellery Conference are significantly bolstered by the robust support and sponsorship from a distinguished array of industry leaders. The conference is proudly sponsored by Gemmological Research Industries Inc (Canada) and receives invaluable backing from Octonus (Finland / Russia), Magilabs (Italy / Finland), Swarovski (Austria), Crown of Light (USA), Gemometrics (Sweden), Moscow State University (Russia), Gemetrix (Australia), Jewellery Appraisers of the World (UK), and the National Association of Jewelry Appraisers (USA). The media sponsorship by The New Jeweller International Media Group further amplifies the conference’s reach and impact, ensuring its vital discussions resonate throughout the global jewelry community. This broad spectrum of support underscores the conference’s importance and its ability to unite various facets of the gem and jewelry world in a shared pursuit of knowledge and advancement.
Beyond the Conference: Immersive Social and Cultural Experiences
Understanding that professional development extends beyond lecture halls, the conference organizers have meticulously prepared a fascinating range of social events, tours, and cultural excursions both before and after the main gathering. These curated experiences offer attendees unique opportunities to network in relaxed settings, explore the rich heritage of the region, and even embark on captivating gem-related adventures. These outings are designed not only for leisure but also to provide deeper context to the gem industry by showcasing natural formations and historical mining sites.
Highlights of the social program include:
- Tours of the Old City of Thessaloniki: An opportunity to explore the historical wonders and vibrant culture of the conference host city, immersing participants in its ancient past and modern charm.
- A Boat Tour of Holy Mount Athos: A breathtaking journey offering views of the sacred monastic state, a UNESCO World Heritage site, providing a unique spiritual and scenic experience.
- Gem Tours to Prilep’s Ruby Mine: A rare chance to visit an active ruby mine, offering firsthand insight into the origins of these magnificent gemstones and the mining processes involved.
- A Visit to the Trepca Mineral Museum and the Sphalerite Mine in Kosovo: An educational excursion to explore significant geological sites and expand knowledge of various mineral formations.
- A Gem and Cultural Tour of Serbia: A comprehensive tour that combines gemological interest with the rich cultural tapestry of Serbia, offering a deeper understanding of the region’s heritage.
These meticulously planned excursions are an integral part of the Mediterranean Gemmological & Jewellery Conference experience, allowing attendees to forge stronger connections with peers, broaden their cultural horizons, and gain a more profound appreciation for the geological and historical contexts of the gem and jewelry world. They transform the conference from a mere educational event into an unforgettable professional and personal journey.
Secure Your Place: Registration and Accommodation
Prospective attendees are encouraged to secure their participation early for this premier industry event. For comprehensive registration details, information on accommodation at the luxurious 5-star “Mediterranean Palace” hotel, and a detailed program outlining all sessions and events, please visit the official conference website at www.gemconference.com. For direct inquiries or further assistance, interested parties may also contact Branko Deljanin via email at [email protected]. Don’t miss this exceptional opportunity to engage with leading experts, gain cutting-edge insights, and network with influential figures in the dynamic world of diamonds and gems in the beautiful setting of Thessaloniki, Greece.