Barbara Lipatapanlop was appointed to serve as Executive Director of the International Colored Gemstone Association as of March 1.

“By appointing Barbara to this position, we’re finally filling a position that has practically been open for two years,” said ICA president Joseph M. Menzie. “We’re very pleased to have her on board at ICA. She’s is well introduced to the international colored gemstone and jewelry business community and she undoubtedly will contribute much to propelling our organization and its goals forward.”

From 1999 until February this year, Lipatapanlop previously served as a senior advisor to the Thai Gem and Jewelry Traders Association. She began working with the organization in 1999.

Lipatapanlop became involved in the gem and jewelry industry in 1993 when she was appointed as managing director of JewelSiam Magazine, a now defunct publication that was based in Bangkok, Thailand. She then continued and as a deputy managing director for a Bangkok-based database publishing company.

Lipatapanlop has more than 15 years experience in public relations, publishing, copywriting, and international relations. She has participated in numerous trade fairs around the world. She is also an accredited gemologist having graduated from the Asian Institute of Gemological Sciences (AIGS) in Bangkok.

“I am exited to join the ICA and take part in the new projects and ventures that are slated,” she said. “As an industry professional, I feel that I bring a wide range of experience to the ICA.”

JCK