IAC’s 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 New York and featuring remarks by Roberta Kramer (VP, Strategy & Business Development-Heritage Auctions).
The conference will feature a distinguished line-up 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.
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.
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.
