When Gem-A revealed the first speakers for its 2026 Conference, it announced far more than another date in the industry calendar. The programme offers a snapshot of the conversations currently shaping gemmology worldwide, from traceability and origin determination to advanced diamond research and evolving consumer expectations.

Returning to The Leonardo Royal Hotel London St Paul’s on 7-8 November, the event will bring together experts from leading institutions including Harvard University, SSEF, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki and De Beers Group.

For Gem-A Chief Executive Officer Cath Hill, the conference remains a cornerstone of professional development.

“The Gem-A Conference is an unmissable occasion for gemmologists, both Gem-A Members and non-members, who are seeking continuing professional development and enrichment.”

Why Traceability Matters More Than Ever

Perhaps the most interesting aspect of the programme is not who is speaking, but what they are speaking about.

Topics including emerald and gold traceability, geographic origin determination and the science behind Type IIa diamonds reflect how the role of the modern gemmologist continues to evolve.

Where identification and grading once dominated industry discussions, today’s professionals are increasingly expected to understand provenance, sourcing practices and scientific verification.

Consumers are asking more questions about where gemstones come from and how claims can be verified. As a result, education has become increasingly important throughout the supply chain.

Hill believes this constant evolution is precisely why events such as the Gem-A Conference remain so valuable.

“The Gem-A Conference is a milestone moment in our calendar year, and I hope our Members, as well as the wider Gem-A community, appreciate this chance to learn, network, and discover something new.”

She adds:

“After all, gemmology is an ever-evolving and continually updating field that keeps us all on our collective toes!”

Gem-A Chief Executive Officer Cath Hill

Cath Hill, CEO of Gem-A, addresses delegates during the Gem-A Conference, highlighting the importance of education, research and professional development within gemmology

Learning Beyond The Lecture Theatre

Alongside keynote presentations, attendees will also have access to a series of practical workshops covering coloured gemstone grading, pearl stringing, diamond manufacturing and gemstone treatment identification.

These sessions reinforce an important point: education within the jewellery industry is becoming increasingly hands-on.

Whether working in retail, valuation, manufacturing or laboratory environments, professionals are expected to continuously update their knowledge as technology and consumer expectations develop.

Delegates from across the global gem and jewellery industry gather at the Gem-A Conference for expert presentations, research insights and professional networking

Bringing Global Expertise To London

The international nature of the speaker line-up remains one of the conference’s strongest assets.

According to Gem-A Honorary President Richard B. Drucker, the goal is to provide attendees with a diverse range of perspectives and specialist expertise.

“As in previous years, we have chosen to invite a carefully curated mix of speakers to the Gem-A Conference to give our attendees the most diverse learning opportunities possible.”

He continues:

“Aside from the speakers already announced, we are preparing to name more internationally renowned experts who will bring their knowledge and experience to London in November. I hope to see as many of you there as possible.”

Gem-A Honorary President Richard B. Drucker

The conference’s growing list of sponsors, including the London Diamond Bourse, National Association of Jewellers and Gemworld International, further highlights the industry’s ongoing support for professional education.

A Community Effort

Hill is also keen to acknowledge the organisations and individuals helping to make the event possible.

“It is thanks to the invaluable support of our speakers and sponsors that we can host such an important event and give back to the gemmology community at an unprecedented scale.”

Looking ahead to November, she concludes:

“I look forward to welcoming them all to London in November for what looks set to be an inspiring three days.”

Gem-A Chief Executive Officer Cath Hill

Gem-A Conference 2026 returns to London on 7-8 November, bringing together leading gemmologists, researchers and industry experts for two days of education, insight and networking

The Jewels Club Take

The strongest message from the 2026 programme is that gemmology is no longer simply about identifying stones. Traceability, scientific research, provenance and transparency are becoming increasingly important across the jewellery industry. The Gem-A Conference reflects that shift and highlights the growing role education will play in helping professionals navigate an increasingly complex marketplace.

Discover More

Gem-A Conference 2026 takes place on 7-8 November at The Leonardo Royal Hotel London St Paul’s, followed by specialist workshops and the Gem-A Graduation Ceremony on 9 November.

Further information and tickets can be found here: gem-a.com/conference-2026/