Houston Chapter: Brazilian Gems in Today's Market with David Epstein

Unwind with us with a glass of wine and light bites and take the opportunity to mingle, catch up and learn about the fascinating world of Brazilian gemstones.

Expert David Epstein will discuss emeralds and Brazilian emerald localities – the history, current production, gemological updates and features of the rough and cut gems. He will share his experience with comparative grading criteria and discuss current and future mining production. Epstein will also discuss other colored gemstones that are being mined in Brazil today. Bring your curiosity and questions – this lecture will give special insight into Brazil’s storied and many splendored gemstone past, present and future.

Epstein is a native New Yorker who has lived in the heart of the most intensive mining region of Brazil – Teofilo Otoni – since 1983. He has traveled the world trading gems and giving lectures, speeches and seminars. He has been a gem consultant to the People's Republic of China, a foreign editor of Colored Stone magazine and has been published in the Lapidary Journal, Joyas y Joyeros (Madrid) and other gem and jewelry publications. Epstein is also a renowned gem sculptor and cutter.

All are welcome to attend this event, whether you're a GIA alumnus, student, industry associate, hobbyist or guest. Please share this invitation with any others you may feel would be interested.