Nature's Geometry
Brian, Charles Cook is an exploration geologist, purveyor of minerals and gems to jewelers, collectors and museums since 1983. Working as a consultant in the field of exploration and purveying of gems and minerals for mining and jewelry industries. Brian is involved in gemstone and mineral mining, including Paraíba tourmaline, spessartine garnet, emeralds, quartz, etc.
Brian believes engaging in action based projects benefiting land and people at artisanal colour gem mining and cutting communities is fundamental towards sustainability.
Transparency and education are fundamental for the positive advancement of the gem, mineral and jewelry industry. Collaboration with museums, universities and operational NGO’s will be part of Brian’s future alignments.
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
Moderator, Douglas Hucker
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.
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