2012 Continuing Education Assignments

Click here to register for the 2012 program.

Assignment 1 Release date: 2/6/12

Interview with Jeff Swanger: Oceanview Mines, LLC

California’s San Diego County has long been the producer of its own boutique band of gems -- including kunzite, tourmaline, beryl, and quartz. This video features Jeff Swanger, owner of North San Diego County’s landmark Pala Chief and Oceanview mines, discussing some of the challenges and rewards of mining these treasures.

Assignment 2 Release date: 3/5/12  

Interview with Ian Harebottle and Adrian Banks: Gemfields, Tucson 2011

At the Tucson Gem Show in 2011, Ian Harebottle and Adrian Banks of Gemfields shared the philosophy behind their company, which partners with the Zambian government to supply emeralds and amethysts to the worldwide colored stone market. Gemfields follows government beneficiation guidelines along with environmentally friendly practices while ensuring a reliable flow of stones of consistent quality. This is a must-see video for anyone who is interested in seeing how a cutting-edge company is trying to change the market perception of two very popular gems.

Assignment 3 Release date: 4/2/12

Interview with Kiwon Jang, KLM Technology, Inc.: Tucson 2012

At this year's Tucson Gem and Mineral Show, inventor Kiwon Jang discussed the efficiency, accuracy, and speed of robotic cutting. Seeing a need in the colored stone industry, Jang developed his robotic cutting machines to handle from one to several stones at a time. The machines are also able to execute many different cutting styles. The presentation includes a demonstration of robotic cutting and displays many finished gems. Join us for a fascinating look at modern gem cutting.

Assignment 4 Release date: 5/7/12

Hallmarks: Interview with William Whetstone and Danusia Niklewicz

In this presentation, you’ll learn the meaning behind the minute, mysterious, and sometimes artful markings stamped onto fine jewelry. William Whetstone and Danusia Niklewicz, directors of the Hallmark Research Institute, explain the meaning behind these symbols and discuss their history and importance. Their discussion also touches on the differences between hallmarks and trademarks, or maker’s marks. This will be an important presentation for anyone involved in or interested in the appraisal of jewelry.