AGA to Host Virtual Diamond Conference on June 24

By Victoria Gomelsky | June 18, 2025

On June 24, the Accredited Gemologists Association (AGA) is hosting a half-day virtual conference dedicated to all things diamond.

Titled “Diamonds from Mine to Market,” the event, which runs from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. PT, will feature leading experts from De Beers, GIA, and Gemworld International. In a presentation on the Gahcho Kué mine in Canada, a joint venture between Mountain Province Diamonds and De Beers Canada, Pamela Cook Ellemers, principal mineral resource manager at the De Beers Group, will talk about current diamond mining and recovery practices at the mine and offer insights into plant operations as well as how miners handle large special crystals.

Pamela Ellemers — *Pamela Cook Ellemers, principal mineral resource manager at the De Beers Group, will offer an update about De Beers’ Gahcho Kué mine in Canada.*

James Conant GIA — *James Conant, Ph.D., a senior research mathematician at GIA, will speak together with his colleague Amanda Hawkes about efforts to develop a fancy-shape diamond cut grading standard.*

Dr. James Conant and Amanda Hawkes from the cut grade research team at GIA will discuss the latest developments in fancy-shape cut grading; and Stuart Robertson, president of Gemworld International, will address the growing role of branding in the diamond market.

*Stuart Robertson, president of Gemworld International, will discuss the importance of branding in the diamond market.*

“This is an exciting opportunity to deliver current, insightful, and objective gemological education,” AGA president Teri Brossmer said in a statement. “AGA is proud to offer a platform that brings together industry leaders and delivers value to our members and the global gemological community.”

Industry professionals, students, and interested attendees worldwide are welcome. Registration includes participation in the live broadcast as well as access to the recorded presentation. The cost is $75 for AGA members and $125 for nonmembers.

Top: Run of mine diamonds recovered at Gahcho Kué, a joint venture between Mountain Province Diamonds and De Beers Canada (photo courtesy of De Beers)