GIA Postpones Gemological Research Conference

The Second Gemological Research Conference (GRC), scheduled for August 21–23, 2009, and hosted by the Gemological Institute of America (GIA), has been postponed pending improvements in the current economic situation.

The GIA said the serious downturn in the global economy has led it to reconsider the timing of the conference.

“The success of the conference is dependent on attracting participants from diverse backgrounds and geographic areas,” said GRC Co-chair Brendan Laurs, “and the current economic climate has created significant budget and travel restrictions for many. Thus, GIA believes it is in everyone’s best interest to hold the conference at a more favorable time.”