Alumni Chapter

London Chapter: Idar-Oberstein; Gems and Jewellers with Deborah Mazza


Join the London chapter for a virtual tour through one of the world’s most famous and historical towns associated with gemstones: Idar-Oberstein, Germany. Deborah Mazza, who has bought and sold gemstones in Idar-Oberstein, will share her personal experience and expertise on the region, including the town’s history and resource as a trading center. 
 
Recognized across the globe for exceptional lapidary and gemstone carving, Idar-Oberstein is known for its artistry of gemstone carving, which can be traced back many generations. From carvings used for personal adornment to objet d’art, the artisans’ works are finished with a very high standard and sculptural accuracy, and historically, this is what has always set them apart. Modern advancement of tools and technology continue to help the artists of Idar-Oberstein develop their work even further. 
 
Mazza will also provide an overview of how to recognize visual quality and address the question of skill and craftsmanship vs. talent. Undoubtedly, attendees will look forward to the opportunity of visiting Idar-Oberstein after this event,
 
About the presenter: Mazza earned an FGG, gemmology and diamond diploma at the DGemG in 1984, completed her FGA in 1986 and earned a bachelor’s degree in business. She worked in Idar-Oberstein buying and selling wholesale gems and diamonds and as a gemologist and instructor at the German Gemmological Association, DGemG, and has experience doing jewelry valuations for an insurance company in the south of Germany. Mazza returned to the UK in 2010 to further her career as a tutor for Gem-A’s online courses and is studying the history of art. She has a valuation business, works part-time for an online auction house and collaborated on Yavorskyy’s new book, “Terra Connoisseur,” which is available at http://ivynewyork.com/gemstonesbook/  
 
All are welcome to attend; whether you're a GIA graduate, student, industry associate, hobbyist or guest. Please share this invitation with any others you feel would be interested. 
 
 
Note event schedule:
6:00 - 6:15  Networking (no admittance after 6:15)
 6:15 - 7:00  Lecture and Q&A
7:00 - 7:15  Social