An additional nine companies from the gem and jewelry industry have made sponsorship contributions to support GIA’s 4^th International Gemological Symposium Aug. 27–29, 2006.

These recent gifts, totaling $201,500, will help cover costs of the event, in which gemologists, jewelers, and industry leaders from around the world will convene in San Diego, California, to discuss the latest industry issues and set forth plans for its future. The event’s theme is “Navigating the Challenges Ahead.”

ABN AMRO Bank and The VNU Jewelry Group jointly contributed $75,000 as gold level sponsors to support the Sunday Opening Session and Keynote address. Both companies have previously given financial donations to GIA totaling more than $700,000 combined.

“GIA provides invaluable service to the industry through its ongoing research and education,” said Anna Martin, ABN AMRO Bank senior vice president. “Symposium will bring industry leaders together to discuss issues that are important to the industry's growth. It is mutually beneficial that we work together to support the future of our industry.”

Silver level sponsors include IJB Jewelers Block Insurance and Jewelers Mutual Insurance Co., which gave $30,000 and $20,000, respectively, in support of the Symposium “War Rooms.” Rapaport will sponsor the Cyber Café with its $25,000 contribution.

Bronze level sponsors include: Fancy Collection, with $10,000 for the Speaker Room and an additional $5,000 for the Monday Morning Break; Israel Diamond Institute and “EIGHTERNITY,” a division of K.R. Gems & Diamonds International, with $10,000 each for the Monday Luncheon. The Israel Diamond Institute gave an additional $7,500 for water bottles. Kazanjian Bros., Inc. donated $8,000 for grants to support presenters at the GIA Gemological Research Conference, which will immediately precede Symposium on Aug. 26 and 27.

Companies that have made major financial gifts of at least $100,000 for Symposium and the Gemological Research Conference to date include The Steinmetz Group of Companies; JCK Magazine; Charles & Colvard, Ltd.; Dimexon Eurostar together with Hearts On Fire; SAFDICO USA Inc.; and Philippe Diamond Corp.

“The widespread industry support for Symposium is clearly demonstrated by the many generous gifts we are receiving,” said Kathryn Kimmel, GIA vice president of Marketing and Public Relations and a co-chair of the event. “This is very important in enabling us to ensure that the event is an enjoyable and very beneficial experience for everyone who attends.”

To learn more about how to contribute to GIA’s 4^th International Symposium, contact Institute Relations Director Jane Lynch, or call 760-603-4114. Click here to learn more about Symposium.