Conference Scientific Seminars: Educational Talks

WHEN: Saturday 3rd May
WHERE: Conference Venue, 380 – 382 Spencer Street, Melbourne 3003
COST: $125 (members), $150 (non-members), $90 (current students)
REGISTRATION REQUIRED: book online or email admin@gem.org.au

ABOUT OUR SPEAKERS

Speaker – Wim Vertriest
Manager of Field Gemmology GIA Bangkok
Field gemmology is about more than studying gems on-site — it’s about understanding their broader impact, from the environment to the people involved. True appreciation comes from seeing the full picture, though that can look different for each person or organisation.

In this presentation, we’ll explore the connections between gemstones, communities, mining, and sourcing, and how understanding these links can help us navigate everyday challenges. Our focus will be East African deposits, following GIA’s 100th Field Expedition to tsavorite, sapphire, and spinel sites in Kenya and Tanzania.

Speaker – Garry Holloway
Diamond Grading Report Integrity & Consumer Trust
Diamond grading reports, or “certs,” are designed to assess quality objectively. This talk explores the science behind grading, revealing its limitations—face-up colour grading, the impact of cut, and the need for clearer standards. To maintain trust, the industry must embrace a more honest, science-driven approach. Join us as we challenge outdated practices and reimagine the future of diamond grading.

Speaker – Dermot Henry
Head, Sciences Department, Museums Victoria
Dermot Henry, an expert in mineralogy and petrology, has managed the Melbourne Museum’s Natural Sciences Collections since 2001. With extensive publications and editorial experience, he is dedicated to sharing the Museum’s treasures with the public. In this engaging talk, Dermot will explore the Museum’s mineral and gemstone collections, highlighting specimens of particular interest to gemmologists.