GIA’s (Gemological Institute of America) inaugural ‘Evolve’ Excellence Conclave drew over 200 participating jewellers on February 10 2013, at the Chancery Pavilion in Bengaluru. The event, held in association with the Jewellers’ Association of Bengaluru (JAB), is part of GIA’s initiative to empower the industry, address the need for learning, and encourage excellence in the gem and jewellery industry, thereby building consumer confidence. The interactive platform offered jewellers an opportunity to network and gain inspiration from successful personalities in other industries. %% “The gem and jewellery industry is a significant contributor to India’s growing economy, and at GIA, we believe continuous learning is a key to sustained growth,” said Nirupa Bhatt, managing director of GIA in India and the Middle East. “This event provided industry participants with an opportunity to learn from leading professionals, entrepreneurs and thought leaders from different walks of life. We thank JAB and all of the attendees for supporting it.” %% Prominent speakers Nikhil Ranjan, CEO of William Penn; Rajeev Gowda, professor of Economic Policy and Social Sciences in IIMB; and Harish Bijoor, brand expert and CEO of Harish Bijoor Consults Inc., shared their expertise during the “Growth Management,” “Changing the Face of India” and “Reinventing the Jewellery Business” presentations. %% “Knowledge is power and our industry needs an enriching experience like this to fuel further growth,” said G. V. Sreedhar, President of JAB. “We are pleased to have worked with GIA on this interactive knowledge platform.” Several mid-sized to large retailers and manufacturers including C. Krishniah Chetty & Sons, Abaran Jewellers, ARNAV the Jewellery Boutique, Bangalore Refinery, Bhuramal Rajmal Surana, Davanam Exports, Nalli Jewellers, TA Padmanabhaiah Setty & Co., and Peakok Jewelry attended the event.