London

Anthony Hirsh, chairman and managing director of Hirsh Ltd., was the guest of honor at GIA London’s most recent graduation ceremony July 15. A total of 20 new Graduate Gemologists, two Colored Stone Graduates and assorted guests listened to him speak about the values they need to uphold in the industry and an amusing story that reminded them, “don’t sit on stock.”

Catherine Tuson, G.G., from Hertford-shire, said completing the program will help her be successful in the gem and jewelry industry.

“This course has been fantastic in so many ways. I have learned and am now confident in my abilities to go out there and face the world and have a great time using my gemological knowledge,” she said.

Tuson tested her knowledge immediately when she started work with Signet Group plc, a large specialty retail jeweler with operations in the U.S. and U.K., soon after graduating.
In other news, all On Campus classes are full at GIA London until Spring 2005.

– Edward Johnson, Director, GIA London

Thailand

GIA Thailand presented a special Diamond Essentials Class for Christie’s Asia staff at the GIA Bangkok facility July 26-30. The auction house’s staff from Hong Kong, Taiwan, Japan, Malaysia, Singapore, Indonesia and Thailand participated in the high-energy class designed to highlight diamond product knowledge. 

They completed the course, one of the three required for the GIA Accredited Jewelry Professional (A.J.P.) diploma program, over five days. The class enjoyed the accelerated delivery – with the hands-on lab session – since it is ideal for busy professionals with limited time.

– Songkran Sae-Lao, General Manager, GIA Thailand