%% The gems on display will be just one facet of the international gem and jewelry conference, which will be held May 29-30 at GIA (Gemological Institute of America) world headquarters in Carlsbad. The event also commemorates the 80th anniversary of GIA. %%

%% “The Steinmetz Sunrise diamond gives Symposium attendees a once-in-a-lifetime glimpse of an extraordinarily large, high-quality gemstone,” said Kathryn Kimmel, GIA vice president and chief marketing officer, who is co-chair of Symposium. “It will only be on display for three days at the GIA Museum, but all of the other pieces, including the unique, whimsical creations of internationally acclaimed jewelry designer Wallace Chan, will remain on exhibit through the fall.” %%

%% Chan’s innovative designs are marked by intricate sculpting, carving and stone setting, that features titanium and vibrant colors to represent living creatures. His inimitable creations are considered not only jewelry, but avant-garde art. More than 30 of Chan’s pieces will be on display. %% The exhibit will also feature a 111-carat Burmese star sapphire courtesy of Symposium poster presenter Benjamin Zucker. %% Also on display will include dramatic sculptures of Perry Brent Davis, a master carver best known for pioneering the confluence between the mineral and lapidary trades and the fine art world. Inspired by nature, Davis’ work consists of large agates carefully chosen for their intricate patterns, appealing color and rich textures. More than 15 of his sculptures, which combine the influences of art deco, abstract and surrealism, will be on display. %%

%% The award-winning Vega jewelry set by Robert Wan – a Tahitian cultured pearl necklace, bracelet and earrings – will also be on view. The set is made up of 111 Tahitian cultured pearls and six carats of diamonds mounted in 18K white gold. The center of the necklace features five diamonds that fluoresce under ultraviolet light to mimic the Lyra constellation, whose principal star is Vega. %%

%% “We are very proud to feature such extraordinary jewelry, along with the brilliant work of Chan, Davis and other notable designers, at Symposium 2011,” Kimmel said. “It is sure to be a memorable event, recognized for the beautiful gemstones on display and the valuable knowledge shared by our speakers and attendees.” %% GIA Symposium 2011 celebrates the Institute’s commitment to serve the public and trade through research, education, gemological laboratory services and instrument development. For more information, visit the Symposium website or email symposium2011@gia.edu %% All images copyright of GIA