Welcome Address by Damien Cody (ICA President)

Welcome Address by Roseli Duque (IBGM President)

Roseli Duque and her special guests warmly welcome attendees to the 2025 ICA Congress.

Congress Introduction Address by Marcelo Ribeiro (Congress Chairman)

The Chairman of the ICA Congress 2025 has guided the creation of the Congress schedule. He has also played an integral role in selecting the fantastic Brazilian facilities for this event. As a 15-year active member of ICA and the third generation of this family corporation, Belmont Emeralds welcomes you.

Master of Ceremony Remarks

Who could make anyone feel more welcome to the Congress than Rui? As the Master of Ceremonies, he will make announcements and introduce presenters. He will also keep you up-to-date on events and what's happening.

Beyond the Surface: Challenges and Opportunities in Brazil’s Color Gemstone Sector

Moderator: Marcelo Ribeiro. Home to an incredible diversity of colored gemstones, Brazil plays an essential role in the global trade. However, navigating market access, regulations, and technological shifts remains challenging. This session brings together industry leaders to explore sustainable practices, innovation, and strategies for strengthening Brazil’s competitive edge.

Coffee break

Brazil’s Gemstone Industry: A Leader in Compliance and Sustainable Practices

Moderator : Manoel Bernardes. Brazil’s commitment to high compliance and sustainability standards is shaping the future of its gemstone sector and could serve as a global benchmark for responsible gemstone mining. However, achieving these standards presents challenges, particularly for small-scale miners, who often struggle with access to legal frameworks, financial resources, and technical support. This session will explore how Brazil is balancing environmental and ethical responsibilities with the realities of gemstone mining.

Featured Speaker: Dr. Gaetano Cavalieri PhD

Lunch

Field Gemology: Understanding the Story of Gems

Field gemology is more than just studying gems in the field. It is trying to better understand how gemstones impact everything surrounding them, whether that is the environment or the people working with them. It is only when we understand the full picture of the gem that we’ll start to appreciate the true value of these special items. It is critical for all of us to develop a holistic view of our gems, while also recognizing that could mean different things for every individual or organization. During this presentation, we’ll take a look at how gemstones, communities, mining and the source are all connected and how understanding these complexities can help us address challenges we face daily.

The Past, Present and Future of Gems and Jewelry from Brazil

Ioannis Alexandris, CEO of Gemolithos and renowned jewelry historian, will present "The Past, Present, and Future of Gems and Jewelry from Brazil" at the ICA Congress 2025 in Brasília. His session will explore Brazil's rich gemstone heritage, current market trends emphasizing transparency and sustainability, and future challenges and opportunities, including ethical mining practices, technological advancements, and global market expansion. The presentation will feature a curated selection of historically significant and contemporary Brazilian gems and jewelry that have achieved international acclaim.

Gemstone Promotional Spotlight: Empowering the Global Gemstone Trade Through Consumer Connection & AI Innovation

The global gemstone industry stands at a pivotal moment. In the face of rising tariffs, evolving consumer expectations, and a rapidly changing digital landscape, GPS is presenting a new model for trade growth- driven by Agentic AI and consumer engagement. At ICA Congress 2025, GPS will unveil how intelligent agents, and personalized education can transform how gemstones are discovered, selected, and sold- while preserving the craftsmanship, ethics, and tradition that define the trade. Highlights include: 1. Introduction to A first-of-its-kind platform built specifically for the gemstone trade and its consumers. 2. Intelligent AI agents that guide clients through gemstone selection based on personal preferences, values, and style. 3. Tools that empower retailers, wholesalers, manufacturers, brands, and institutions through personalized commerce, digital education, and omnichannel storytelling. 4. A model that brings educated consumers directly to retail, lifting demand across the entire gemstone ecosystem. 5. A call to action to co-create the future of gem commerce with purpose-built, trusted, and inclusive technology. To learn more, explore partnership opportunities, or collaborate with GPS, please reach out to us at [email protected] , or contact Joe Menzie directly at [email protected] or Frances Diniz at [email protected]

Break

Armil Sammoon - Topic TBA

Responsible Sourcing and Relevance to Color Gemstone, Jewelry and Mineral Industries

This presentation will focus on “Responsible” sourcing as it relates to colour gemstone artisanal mining and cutting communities. Do we, as individuals or an industry, have a responsibility? It is a choice. This ages old industry, our global family. Is it “sustainable”? The mineral economic opportunities from earth and sea come into the hands of artisanal and small-scale miners (ASM) through hard labor, sacrifice, and good luck. While relating these rich stories associated with the lands, the cultures, and the proud people that are the cornerstone of our trade, the key to securing consumer trust in the jewelry, gem, and mineral industry, is by embracing transparency. We take from the earth, what can we give back? Investing in ASM communities, be it education, value-added enterprises, land stewardship, health and safety, equitable opportunities; we are investing in the future of our industry. We are aligning with the United Nations Social Development Goals. We counter negative views of gemstone mining through positive action. Our industry expands the relevance of our labour and craft. “All we have to decide is what to do with the time that is given us.” - Gandalf

Johanna Levy

Bus Departure from Royal Tulip Brasilia Alvorada

Dinner at Mezanino

Get ready for a night to remember at Mezanino, the iconic restaurant perched 25 meters above ground at the Brasília TV Tower—one of the city’s most emblematic landmarks, designed by Lúcio Costa and inaugurated in 1967. With sweeping panoramic views of the Monumental Axis, the Ministries Esplanade, and the heart of Brasília, Mezanino offers a truly unique setting where architecture, culture, and gastronomy come together. On this special evening, Mezanino will come alive with the energy of Carnaval—an upbeat celebration of Brazilian music and joy. Come ready to dance, enjoy vibrant performances, and immerse yourself in the rhythms and colors of Brazil's most iconic party, all set against the dazzling skyline of the capital.

Unlocking the Potential of Mining Investments in Brazil

Brazil is home to some of the world's most sought-after colored gemstones, yet its full investment potential remains largely untapped. This session will explore the opportunities and challenges in the sector, from opportunities to regulatory considerations. Experts will discuss strategies for attracting investors, enhancing supply chain transparency, and positioning Brazil as a premier destination for ethical and profitable gemstone investments. Moderator: Prof. Giorgio de Tomi, Additional Participants To be Determined, including a Rep of MG state, and Rep of Piauí state.

Featured Speaker: Susan Jacques, GIA - Generations of Wonder

Since its founding in 1931, GIA has nurtured many generations. Students, some of whom start at eight or nine with our GemKids program, study with GIA on campus or online and move into rewarding careers across the industry and the world. Scientists take their academic training into the field, personally collecting samples for GIA’s unrivaled reference collection of colored stone rough with documented origin. Industry professionals return to GIA to refresh their knowledge and expertise, often bringing their own next generation with them. It is a virtuous cycle of knowledge and wonder, all in service of building trust within our industry and – so importantly – with the public.

Empowering the Coloured Gemstone Industry: The Benefits of Tenders from Miner to Manufacture

Tim will explore how tenders are transforming the colored gemstone market by fostering transparency, fair pricing, and global market access. He will highlight the benefits of tenders in developing the supply chain, including enhanced trust and valuable market insights, while also showcasing how manufacturers can efficiently and sustainably source high-quality gemstones. The presentation will emphasize the role of tenders in creating a more ethical, competitive, and streamlined marketplace.

Coffee Break

Sustainability Panel

Moderator, Douglas Hucker

Gems Keep Giving 2.0

Gems Keep Giving is an independent, not-for-profit, charitable organization dedicated to supporting artisanal colored gemstone mining and cutting communities worldwide. An overview of the work of Gems Keep Giving, an initiative of the ICA, Gems Keep Giving is now self-governed and invites contributions from socially conscious sponsors, foundations, and donors who share a passion for colored gems. With a commitment to transparency and responsible fund allocation, our inaugural project in Kamtonga, Kenya, has already made a significant impact by providing running water and solar energy to an artisanal tsavorite mining community and has become self-sustaining. Gems Keep Giving is an independent, not-for-profit, charitable organization dedicated to supporting artisanal colored gemstone mining and cutting communities worldwide. The presentation will also feature an overview of our next project, prevention of silicosis disease, which is prevalent in gemstone mining in Brazil.

Lunch

How Can Independent Appraisal Practices Contribute to Colored Stone Business

The general perception of gem and jewelry appraisal/valuation is to obtain coverage for insurance only. Nevertheless, the appraisal profession offers a great variety of additional value related to services. An independent opinion of value related services. An independent opinion of value and market information is beneficial to global colored stone business from the manufacturer to the consumer. While success in the traditional gem business remains to be experience based, new practices, such as responsible jewelry trading, are in need of a third party for verification of the goods. Similarly, extending the most updated information from laboratories to the consumer level may well be achieved via independent appraisals. In an ever-changing world, thanks to advanced technology and brand-new concepts, consumers should feel more comfortable having a third-party opinion on their purchase. This is viable through independent gem and jewelry appraisers/valuers cooperating with the global colored stone trade to communicate new developments to the consumer.

2025 China Gemstone Market: Time of Changes and Opportunities

Many changes have occurred in the China colored gemstone and jewelry industry post covid, with 2024 and the first quarter of this year seeing the most dramatic changes. The entire supply chain structure has seen disruption, with leading players changing, fierce competition, and entirely new market channels. This is all in an atmosphere of reduced and cautious consumer luxury products and discretionary income spending. The market moves fast, and it moves powerfully in varied directions. While the industry has seen a drop in the second half of 2024, there are new movers and shakers seizing market share and developing new strategies changing the dynamics of the traditional industry business model. As we examine statistics and demographics combined with our insight and perception, it becomes clear that innovation and international cooperation are the paths to future growth. And the potential for growth is still very strong.

Break

What color is my stone? Irradiation and Color Instability in Sapphire

Color treatment by artificial irradiation has been an issue in the sapphire trade for over a half century. Early on methods were developed to remove potentially unstable color in treated sapphires. However, recent developments including irradiation of pink sapphire to produce a temporary padparadscha-like color and irradiation of some rubies has resurfaced this issue and created uncertainties in the market. In this presentation Dr. Aaron Palke will provide an overview of the ins and outs of artificial irradiation and color instability in sapphire, as well as providing practical tools for identifying such stones.

The Current Landscape and the Impacts of Compliance for the Coloured Gemstone Industry

Sustainability is high on the agenda in a number of sectors, and more so in the gems and jewellery sector where reputation is probably the single most important brand asset. However, with increased sustainability concerns come increased compliance requirements from various stakeholders, creating a very complex array of standards, obligations, procedures, policies etc. The coloured gemstone sector is coming under more and more pressure from various angles to comply with all these requirements, and our consulting experience shows that this segment of the gem & jewellery business is often ill-prepared for this evolution. Now that most of the diamond business is ‘under control’, the attention of various sustainability actors is increasingly focusing on the coloured stones segment. This session will create some clarity in the various compliance standards and organisations that are active today, and propose a clear road map for future compliance of your own company.

The Price of Passage: What Sanctions and Tariffs Mean for Gemstone Trade

Join Sara Yood, JVC's CEO & General Counsel, for an in-depth presentation on the evolving landscape of U.S. trade, sanctions, and tariffs as they relate to the colored gemstone industry. As tariff wars escalate, it's increasingly important to understand the tools governments use to achieve their objectives. As enforcement increases, gemstone dealers must stay ahead of the curve to ensure compliance, protect their supply chains, and avoid costly disruptions. Whether you're sourcing from traditional markets or exploring new regions, understanding the price of passage has never been more critical.

Departure from Royal Tulip Brasilia Alvorada

Dinner - Rubaiyat

Join us for a casual evening at the renowned Rubaiyat Brasília, a true icon of Brazilian and international gastronomy. Commanded by the Iglesias family for three generations, the Rubaiyat Group is celebrated for its culinary excellence and warm hospitality, with acclaimed locations in São Paulo, Rio de Janeiro, Madrid, Santiago, and Buenos Aires. The Brasília venue, nestled on the shores of Paranoá Lake, features a stunning glass-walled dining room and a charming veranda with breathtaking views. As the sun sets, enjoy a night of refined flavors and smooth rhythms, with the charm of chorinho and samba de gafieira—soulful, graceful expressions of Brazilian music and dance. It’s the perfect setting to savor exceptional cuisine, lively conversation, and an unforgettable evening infused with true Brazilian vibe.

Featured Speaker: Sumed Prasongpongchai, GIT - Sustainability in the Gem and Jewelry Industry: Thailand’s Commitment to Global Standards

As the global gem and jewelry industry evolves, sustainability has become an essential pillar for long-term growth. At GIT, we are committed to driving sustainability by integrating responsible sourcing, ethical practices, and environmental stewardship into Thailand’s gem and jewelry sector. Our initiatives focus on aligning with international standards, fostering transparency, and empowering industry stakeholders to embrace sustainable practices. Through collaboration and innovation, we aim to position Thailand as a leader in sustainable gem and jewelry production while contributing to global sustainability goals.

The Provenance of Pink and Red Diamonds: Argyle, Brazil and Beyond

Branko Deljanin will present an in-depth investigation of the provenance and gemmological traits of pink and red diamonds from around the world - with special focus on rare stones from Brazil and Australia's now-closed Argyle Mine (which produces rare pink diamonds). Branko will compare key sources from Canada, Africa, Russia, Venezuela as well as key sources in Brazil - offering insights on mining techniques, cutting processes, geological influences that affect colour quality as well as market demand for origin reports similar to what has occurred within ruby trade. Branko will explore visual markers such as colored graining, strain and fluorescence to help identify and authenticate natural pink diamonds. He will also compare colour grading systems used by Argyle, GIA, and CGL- GRS and discuss gemmological instruments used to detect treated and lab-grown gems. Attendees will gain a better understanding of provenance reports additional value to these rare gems as well as challenges faced when recutting these rare gems.

A Market in Flux: Trends and Factors Driving the Gemstone Industry

The industry is seeing an unprecedented amount of change, innovation, and disruption in its ever-expanding global supply chain. In this presentation, Brecken will talk about the components driving the current colored stone market, from the micro trends in supply and demand driving buyers into new categories to the technology and developments influencing market activity and the changing perceptions of value in the industry.

Coffee Break

Margins, Myths, and Multi-Generational Markets: How Gemstones Can Seize the Moment left by Diamond Disruption

The diamond sector has stumbled—pressured by plunging per-carat prices and squeezed by the rise of lab- grown, and caught in a race to the bottom on margins. But in that tumble, a wide door has opened. It's the colored gemstone sector’s time to rise—not by mimicking the diamond industry’s playbook, but by rewriting it. In this session, Elle Hill, Founder & CEO of Hill & Co. and creator of THE LIST, will show how to seize this turning point. Colored gemstones don’t just offer better margins and stronger stories—they offer a path to acquiring entirely new clients who are eager for something fresh, rare, and rich in meaning and margins. These buyers may not have worked with gemstones often before, but they’re actively looking for alternatives to traditional diamond offerings. This talk will focus on how to find and convert these clients. Elle will share real-world case studies and practical tools to help gemstone businesses become trusted partners to a new generation of retailers and designers ready to diversify their assortments and elevate their offers. Colored gemstones are no longer the supporting cast—they are the main act.

Rupak Sen - Topic TBA

Luck is Not a Business Plan: The Evolution of Emerald Mining to Hunting to Modern Underground Operations Practices

For the past 20 years, Vincent Pardieu has explored numerous emerald deposits, from Colombia’s famed Muzo mine to recent discoveries in Central Asia and Africa. In many cases, mining began as little more than treasure hunting, with people relying on simple artisanal tools and luck to fi nd gems near the surface. Over time, as operations became more mechanized or moved underground, mining grows increasingly technical, challenging, hazardous, and costly. To sustain and expand their ventures, miners often seek investors and adopt advanced techniques to try to improve efficiency, productivity and hopefully: profitability.

Lunch

Press Conference

General Membership Meeting

ICA Board Meeting

Gala Dinner

Join us for a memorable Gala Dinner at the Royal Tulip Brasília Alvorada—a formal evening to celebrate the closing of the congress in grand style. Set in the hotel’s elegant event space, the night promises refinement, joy, and connection. Guests will enjoy a carefully curated dinner experience, followed by lively international music performances designed to keep the dance floor alive. Dress to impress and get ready to toast to new friendships, successful collaborations, and the vibrant spirit that brought us together. It's the perfect finale to an unforgettable journey.