The Institute is inviting gemologists and other scientists to submit abstracts for its first-ever Gemological Research Conference (GRC), to be held Aug. 26–27, 2006, at the Manchester Grand Hyatt Hotel in San Diego, Calif., just prior to the 4^th International Gemological Symposium, Aug. 27–29. The GRC will provide a global forum for scientists and other specialists to exchange information and gain a better understanding of modern gemological research.

In addition to invited lectures, the GRC will welcome submitted oral and poster presentations. Presenters also will have an opportunity to show their research samples during the Poster Session, where microscopes will be provided.

Submitted abstracts will be reviewed for appropriateness and scientific merit. Conference themes include: geology of gem deposits, new gem occurrences, gem characterization techniques, diamond and corundum treatments, laboratory growth of gem materials, and general gemology.

Abstracts should be submitted to gemconference@gia.edu (oral presentations) or to Dona Dirlam (poster presentations). All abstracts should include:

• Title of the proposed presentation
• Name, affiliation, mailing address, telephone and fax numbers, and e-mail address of the author(s)
• The conference theme for which the abstract is intended and the preferred presentation format (oral or poster)
• Brief summary of the research (about 400 words)
• One figure or table (optional)

The deadline for all submissions is March 1, 2006. Notification of acceptance or rejection will be sent by May 1. Abstracts for all presentations that are given at the conference will be published in a proceedings volume.

A limited number of GRC participants will have a special opportunity to visit some of San Diego County’s gem deposits during a pre-conference field trip to the world-famous Pala pegmatite district on Aug. 25. In addition, all GRC participants will be invited to attend the International Gemological Symposium opening session and keynote speech on Sunday, Aug. 27, as well as the Diamond Gala at the Institute’s world headquarters that evening.

Limited funds for reimbursement of travel/hotel expenses will be available to selected GRC presenters who demonstrate appropriate need.

Registration for the GIA Gemological Research Conference and the 4^th International Gemological Symposium will begin in mid-September at www.symposium.gia.edu. For further information on attending or presenting at the GIA Gemological Research Conference, contact the organizing committee at gemconference@gia.edu or visit www.gia.edu/gemsandgemology or www.symposium.gia.edu.

The 2006 GIA Gemological Research Conference is made possible through the generous support of Charles & Colvard, Ltd.