Initiatives in Art and Culture (IAC) honors Torrance D. Hoover and Cristina Echavarria with the Award for
Leadership in Responsible Practice, and Gaetano Cavalieri with the Award for
Extraordinary Contributions to the Diamond and Jewelry
Industries.
NEW
YORK, July 5, 2024 /PRNewswire-PRWeb/ -- IAC's
highly anticipated 14th Annual Gold and Diamond Conference will
take place at the Bohemian National Hall from Tuesday July 16th through Wednesday July 17, 2024, following a welcome
reception the evening of Monday, July
15th hosted by Heritage Auctions at 445 Park Ave,
New York, NY 10022 and featuring
remarks by Roberta Kramer (VP,
Strategy & Business Development, Heritage Auctions).
Through fostering dialogue, sharing
knowledge, and driving progress in ways that benefit both our
industry and the world, we broaden our horizons, understanding
countries and hemispheres to be interconnected in ways that we have
not previously.
The conference will feature a distinguished lineup of industry
leaders, academics, jewelers, and representatives from trade
organizations and NGOs worldwide. United under the theme "Expanding
Horizons," the event aims to foster innovative perspectives and
collaborative efforts within the gold, diamond, and jewelry
sectors. Participants from across the supply chain are invited to
engage in dynamic panel discussions and networking sessions,
offering invaluable opportunities to connect with key figures in
the industry.
Building on the foundation laid by last year's "Maintaining
Purpose" conference, IAC's 2024 Gold and Diamond Conference will
delve into the practicalities of driving positive change in the
mining and jewelry sectors. The event will address the global
challenges that create interconnectedness throughout the world,
including climate change, gender inequality, and the socio-economic
realities of mining communities. Through consensus-building and
developing context-sensitive solutions, the conference aims to
inspire stakeholders to embrace innovative approaches that
contribute to a better future.
"Gold and Diamonds have always been treasured for their beauty
and rarity. In addition to their preciousness and decorative value,
they are central to many industrial applications and will always
hold a special place economically…and socially. Responsible mining
and sourcing are now an impactful enhancement to their value. As it
has in the past, IAC will be exploring this important value-add
must," says Mark Hanna (CMO,
Richline Group).
Formal sessions begin Tuesday, June
16 with registration and a coffee reception, providing a
chance to network and meet fellow participants before the formal
sessions commence. Lisa Koenigsberg
(President & Founder of Initiatives in Art and Culture [IAC])
will officially open the conference. Her remarks will set the stage
for the day's discussions, emphasizing the conference theme of
"Expanding Horizons" and the importance of collaboration and
innovation in the gold diamond and gemstone industries. "With this
event, IAC demonstrates its commitment to bringing the industry's
leading minds together to consider new approaches to innovation,
sustainability, craft, and ethical practices in the jewelry sector
writ large. Through fostering dialogue, sharing knowledge, and
driving progress in ways that benefit both our industry and the
world, we broaden our horizons, understanding countries and
hemispheres to be interconnected in ways that we have not
previously. We also recognize cultural heritage as a key natural
resource to be protected and as an active element in shaping the
future. I am filled with anticipation about the progress to be made
this year, exciting in and of itself and as a foundation for IAC's
ongoing exploration," says Koenigsberg. The opening panel titled
"Cross-Industry Convergence and Collaboration" moderated by
Lisa Koenigsberg, will explore the
feasibility and challenges of fostering collaboration across
diverse sectors within the jewelry industry. Panelists include:
Gaetano Cavalieri (President,
CIBJO), Satta Matturi (Creative
Director, Matturi Fine Jewellery, diamond industry expert and
Responsible Jewellery Council [RJC] Board member), John Mulligan (Director and Climate Lead, World
Gold Council; President, Sustainable Development Commission, World
Jewellery Confederation/CIBJO), and Iris
Van der Veken, (Executive Director, Watch and Jewellery
Initiative 2030). The panel will address key questions and
challenges among them whether it is realistic to expect diverse
market actors to unite, and agree on common goals, and the
potential limits of collaboration. Topics include the Gold Industry
Declaration of Responsibility and Sustainability Principles, with
insights on its status, obstacles, and lessons learned, presented
by John Mulligan. Mulligan says, "We
welcome the opportunities this offers to engage and exchange ideas
with jewelry sector leaders to explore how, together, we might
address key industry challenges and ensure we make positive
contributions to our shared sustainability goals." Additionally,
the ISO and the recycled gold debate will be discussed.
Gaetano Cavalieri declares
"Initiatives in Art and Culture's Gold + Diamond Conference has
established itself over the past several years as a milestone event
on the international jewelry industry's calendar, not only
highlighting the challenges of the day, but also breaking new
ground, both in terms of defining the issues about which we should
be concerned and the strategies and methodologies that we should
consider using to deal with them. CIBJO is proud to have been part
of the effort."
Mmetla Masire (CEO of Okavango Diamond Company) will then
present "Diamonds in Botswana," in
which he will focus on the unique aspects of the diamond industry
in Botswana. Key discussion points
will include: retaining value in producer countries, government
policies & regulations, value chain participation, and the
Botswana story. Using the Okavango
Diamond Company as a case study, Masire will explore the lessons
learned and pitfalls to avoid in order to maximize value within
producing countries.
Continuing the theme, Brecken
Branstrator (Editor-in-Chief of Gemworld) will then moderate
"Comparative Approaches to Retaining Greater Value in Producing
Countries," which will feature correlative analyses of strategies
used in various countries to retain more value from their natural
resources. Panelists include: Avi
Levy (President, IGI North America), Douglas Neves (CEO, Cruzeiro Mine), Marcelo Ribeiro (CEO, Belmont Emerald Mines),
and Mmetla Masire. The discussion will cover diverse approaches and
strategies implemented by various countries, mines, and companies
with the goal of identifying best practices to adapt and implement
to enhance value retention by producer countries.
After lunch on Tuesday, attendees will engage in a discussion of
"Gold: Single Mine, Single Source – A Closer Look." Participating
panelists include: Charlie Betts
(Group Managing Director, The Betts Group), Emefa Cole (Goldsmith & Curator of the
Jewellery of the Diaspora, Victoria & Albert Museum),
Tony Maietta (Product Engineering +
Relationship Development, C & J Fine Jewelry Matters), and
Satta Matturi; they will delve into
the intricacies and benefits of sourcing gold from single mines.
The conversation will explore traceability and sustainability
advantages of single-source gold, ethical implications, and how
such practices can enhance transparency and consumer trust in the
jewelry industry.
Casting a wider net on question of sourcing, Rob Bates (News Editor at JCK), will moderate
"Origin, Source, and Provenance," a panel examining the
significance of the origin and provenance of materials in the
jewelry industry. Panelists include: David
Block (CEO, Sarine), Sara
Yood (CEO/General Counsel, Jewelers Vigilance Committee),
Mark Hanna, Adriano Mol (Head,
Center for Gemstone and Jewelry Design, University of Minas Gerais
State), and Ruby Stocklin-Weinberg
(Program Manager, GemFair, De Beers). The session will discuss how
the source of materials impacts their value and how they are
perceived, technological advancements in tracing origins, and the
broader implications of sourcing from particular locations and for
specific substances. Topics include ethical, geographical and
environmental considerations, the role of origin in consumer
choice, and the impact of regulatory frameworks.
After a short break for attendees to refresh and network,
Brad Brooks-Rubin (Senior Advisor in
the Office of the Sanctions Coordinator at the US Department of
State) will provide an update on the current US stance on
'problematic' sources and materials, such as diamonds and gold.
This session, "The State and Sanctions," will cover the
implications of sanctions on the jewelry industry and the measures
taken to ensure compliance with international standards.
A comprehensive session, "Current State of the Diamond Market,"
covering various aspects of the diamond landscape follows. Notable
industry figures in the conversation moderated by Rob Bates include: Olivia Landau (Founder & CEO, The Clear
Cut), Matt Schamroth (Partner, M.
Schamroth & Sons), Ronnie
VanderLinden (President, Diamex Inc.; VP, World Diamond
Council), and Amish Shah (Founder & CEO, ALTR). The session
will cover topics such as the dynamics of the natural and lab-grown
diamond markets, beyond bridal trends, and the current challenges
and opportunities in the diamond industry.
The day will culminate with an awards presentation and
reception. IAC's seventh Award for Leadership in Responsible
Practice in Jewelry presented to recognize an individual or
organization for outstanding contributions to ethical sourcing and
responsible practices in the jewelry industry will be presented to
Torrance D. Hoover and Cristina Echavarria. Additionally, reflecting
IAC's commitment to collaboration, community, and positive change.
IAC's fourth award for Extraordinary Contributions to the Diamond
and Jewelry Industries will be bestowed upon Gaetano Cavalieri. The awards evening provides
an opportunity for celebration and networking amongst attendees,
recognizing the achievements and dedication of fellow industry
leaders. Torrance D. Hoover,
President, Hoover & Strong, has been recognized for his
outstanding leadership in promoting ethical sourcing and
responsible practices within the jewelry industry. Hoover &
Strong, under his guidance, has been a pioneer in sustainable
jewelry practices, ensuring that their products are sourced and
manufactured with the highest ethical standards. Cristina Echavarria, Artisanal mining specialist
and Co-founder of the Alliance for Responsible Mining, is honored
for her extensive work in supporting sustainable development and
participatory natural resource management with indigenous and
Afro-Colombian rural communities and artisanal miners. With over 35
years of experience, Echavarria has played a pivotal role in
advancing responsible mining practices across Latin America and parts of Africa. Gaetano
Cavalieri, President of CIBJO, The World Jewellery
Confederation, has been instrumental in promoting ethical standards
and practices globally, advocating for the industry's commitment to
sustainability, transparency, and social responsibility.
Day one of IAC's Gold and Diamond Conference set a high standard
with insightful discussions on single-source gold, material origin,
the current state of the diamond market, and an inspiring awards
presentation, and attendees will have a renewed sense of purpose
and anticipation for the sessions to come. With an equally
compelling lineup, day two Wednesday July
17 continues exploring innovative practices, fostering
meaningful collaborations within the industry. Registration and
coffee session, provide a relaxed atmosphere to reconnect with
peers, discuss insights from the previous day, and set the stage
for another day of learning and networking. Lisa Koenigsberg will deliver opening remarks,
reflecting on key takeaways from Tuesday, outlining the objectives
for the day ahead. She will emphasize the importance of continued
dialogue and the collective efforts required to drive positive
change in the jewelry industry.
The day begins with "Looking Beyond Net Zero – Climate Change
Actions and the Just Transition," a vital panel discussion
moderated by John Mulligan, focusing
on climate change actions beyond net zero and the concept of a just
transition. Panelists Stewart Bailey
(Chief Corporate Affairs & Sustainability Officer, AngloGold
Ashanti), Shari Gittleman (Senior
Director, External Relations, Newmont Mining Corporation),
Mark Hanna, and Iris Van der Veken will explore the challenges
and opportunities of climate action from the perspectives of
developing economies and emerging markets. They will discuss how to
reconcile different perspectives, contribute to progress in
vulnerable locations, understand local perceptions and priorities,
and support local resilience.
The next discussion is titled "Cultural Heritage and Artistic
Practice, Provenance and Repatriation." Moderated by Andrew Russeth of ArtNet, this session will
delve into the intersection of cultural heritage, artistic
practice, provenance, and repatriation. Panelists include
Emefa Cole, Cristina Echevarria, Satta Matturi, and Lucian Simmons (Head of Provenance Research, The
Metropolitan Museum of Art). They will discuss the significance of
cultural heritage in the jewelry industry, the ethical implications
of provenance, and the processes and challenges associated with
repatriation.
Edward Bickham (Senior Adviser at
the World Gold Council) will then convene a discussion on
"Responsible Sourcing and Supply Chain Due Diligence. The
discussion will feature insights from Louis
Marechal (Senior Advisor, Minerals & Extractives, Centre
for Responsible Business Conduct, Directorate for Financial and
Enterprise Affairs – OECD), Brad
Brooks-Rubin and Ruby
Stocklin-Weinberg. The panel will examine what good practice
looks like in the supply chains that brings jewelry materials to
market, the state of current regulations and guidance, and the
realities shaping due diligence in current supply chains.
Discussants will explore the obstacles preventing the full
realization of responsible sourcing practices.
The morning sessions will conclude with a critical discussion on
human and labor rights, moderated by Edward
Bickham. Panelists include Shari
Gittleman, Mora Johnson (Head
of Secretariat, Voluntary Principles on Security and Human Rights,
CCC), and Iris Van Der Veken. They
will explore the foundation laid by the Universal Declaration of
Human Rights (UDHR) and its implications for responsible mining and
the jewelry industry. It will cover the steps needed to define and
respond to human rights issues, the role of businesses in
respecting human rights, and the work required to fully adopt and
implement the UDHR within the industry.
The afternoon session kicks off with a luncheon sponsored by the
World Bank, featuring a discussion on best practices and approaches
concerning mine site safety, environmental stewardship, and
security in Artisanal and Small-scale Mining (ASM). Covering a
range of World Bank initiatives, from occupational health and
safety to mercury abatement and mine development, discussion will
consider the importance of sustainable and safe mining
practices.
In "ASM – How do we identify and fund enduring and scalable
solutions?" moderated by Edward
Bickham, the panel will explore how to identify and fund
enduring and scalable solutions in the ASM sector. Panelists
include Stewart Bailey, Pete Chirico (USGS Florence Bascom Geoscience
Center), Giorgio di Tomi (Professor,
Polytechnic School and director of the Research Center for
Responsible Mining, University of São Paolo), Rachel Perks (Senior Mining Specialist, World
Bank), and Roger Tissot (Executive
Director, Artisanal Gold Mining Council). Highlighting innovative
approaches and successful case studies, panelists will emphasize
collaboration and financial strategies to support sustainable ASM
practices.
In "Training for the Future: A Conversation" the spotlight will
be on training the next generation of jewelers and industry
leaders. Panelists Karen Smith
(Metalsmith and Founder, We Wield the Hammer), Lorraine West (Designer, Lorraine West Jewelry
and member, Black in Jewelry Coalition), and Longo Mulaisho-Zinsner
(Founder and President, JGAA Jewellery and Gemstone Association of
Africa) will discuss the
importance of education, mentorship, and skill development in
ensuring that the future of the jewelry industry is diverse,
inclusive, and innovative. "At IAC's conference, there's a wealth
of discovery and inspiration to tap into pertaining to
sustainability, fair trade gold & diamond mining, design,
education, inclusion and so much more. Let's take the knowledge
we'll gain and spread it all over the world to make the luxury
jewelry and watch industries more equitable and integral for the
next generation," says Lorraine
West. Then, "Jewelry for Gentlemen" will be examined in an
exploration of the growing market for men's jewelry that rounds out
the afternoon. This session includes insights from Eric Laker (Owner, Lashbrook), Grant Mobley (Jewelry & Watch Editor,
Natural Diamond Council), and Frank
Everett (Senior Vice President and Vice Chairman, Jewelry
Americas, Sotheby's New York).
Trends, consumer behavior, and marketing strategies for men's
jewelry, highlighting the unique aspects of this segment and its
potential for growth, will be covered.
CIBJO is IAC's Conference Partner for Expanding Horizons.
Belmont Emerald Mines, World Gold
Council and Cruzeiro Mine are sponsors at the Leadership level.
Betts Metals, IGI, GIA, Newmont, and Sarine are sponsors at the
Donor level. Initiatives in Art and Culture is grateful for support
from Hoover & Strong, Rio Grande, DMIA, Heritage Auctions and
The World Bank.
Join the conversation on expanding the industry's horizons, and
exploring new frontiers in the gold, diamond, and jewelry
industries. IAC's 14th Annual Gold and Diamond Conference will be
hosted on the evening of July 15th at
Heritage Auctions at 445 Park Ave, New
York, NY 10022 and from July
16 – 17, 2024 at Bohemian National Hall, 321 E. 73 Street,
New York, NY. Register for
"Expanding Horizons" on Eventbrite at
https://www.eventbrite.com/e/14th-annual-international-gold-and-diamond-conference-tickets-908371502617.
To learn more about Initiatives in Art and Culture, visit
http://artinitiatives.com, call 646-485-1952, or email
info@artinitatives.com. For press or media coverage inquiries,
images, additional speaker quotes, or interviews, contact Pietra
Communications at 212-913-9761 or email info@pietrapr.com.
About Initiatives in Art and Culture
Initiatives in Art and Culture (IAC) educates diverse audiences
in visual culture, including the fine and decorative arts. A
commitment to authenticity, to artisanry, and to materials
undergirds all considerations undertaken by IAC, as does a
mindfulness of sustainability and of our obligations to the planet.
Each IAC undertaking is marked by a commitment to bringing together
representatives from every sector, with thought-leaders from other
disciplines, industries, and institutions to undertake
cross-disciplinary approaches outside conventional industry
discourse. IAC's goal is to initiate dialogue and challenge all to
integrate change without fear.
IAC's primary activities are conferences, webinars,
publications, and exhibitions that take an interdisciplinary
approach, considering issues related to fabrication,
connoisseurship, cultural patrimony and preservation, and the
future of culture. Particular areas of emphasis include American
art, precious substances, the history of frames, the Arts and
Crafts movement, the influence of Asian cultures on American fine
and decorative art, and the history and future of fashion. IAC's
projects have been supported by a wide array of individual,
corporate, and foundation funders.
Media Contact
Olga Gonzalez, Initiatives in Art
and Culture, 2129139761, info@pietrapr.com,
https://artinitiatives.com/
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