Dr. Malone, associate professor for the GIA School of Business will cover some of the following points in his presentation:
• How word-of-mouth marketing can be a powerful force in the jewelry marketplace
• How to promote your jewelry expertise more effectively
• Current consumer market research and trends
• Understanding the power of referrals in the jewelry industry

The Open House is an opportunity for jewelry professionals, prospective students or anyone interested in the gems and jewelry industry, to find out more about GIA Los Angeles and all it has to offer. Attendees will tour the campus, meet GIA President Donna Baker and network with the Southern California jewelry community.

"Our Open House offers people an opportunity to ask questions to established professionals in the industry, as well as GIA instructors, all in a relaxed, social environment," said Veronica Clark-Hudson, director of GIA Los Angeles. "The event also allows guests to see and appreciate the broad opportunities a gemological education can provide."

The GIA Los Angeles Open House will be held from 5:30-8:30 p.m. Thursday, March 27 and includes a reception prior to the "What's all the Buzz About?" seminar.

For more information or to RSVP, call (310) 670-2100, e-mail laedu@gia.edu or visit, www.gia.edu/education.