GIA’s GemFest Italy, a free educational event that provides a forum for sharing current ideas and information of interest to the gemological world, is scheduled Sept. 21 at 3 p.m. at the Sala Palladio Conference Hall on the Vicenza Trade Fair premises in Vicenza.

The theme for GemFest event is “The American Market: a Changed World.” It will include three presentations that will focus on how the American gem and jewelry market has been restructured, how it has evolved, its competitive nature, and how it’s growing.

Ben Janowski, president of The Janos Group, Ltd., will present “Meeting the Challenge, Today and Tomorrow.” The consulting division of his company, Janos Consultants, works with industry organizations, manufacturers and retailers regarding such needs as strategic planning, marketing issues, and analysis of the U.S. market.

“Designing for Success in the World’s Biggest Market” is the title of Maria C. Canale’s presentation. Canale, an independent jewelry designer and consultant in New York City, is an expert at identifying central design elements for a client and translating them into signature collections that help create unique images and brands.

Colleen Caslin, chief operating officer and creative director for Seaman-Schepps, an American manufacturer of cuff links and studs, will present “Retailers Need More than Product.” Caslin is considered one of America’s leaders in the gem and jewelry industry, and has worked for a number of companies over the years, including Tiffany & Co., Van Cleef & Arpels, and Gübelin.

GemFest Italy is held in conjunction with the Orogemma show, scheduled Sept. 6-11. GIA Alumni who attend a GemFest will receive four carat points. For more information, and to reserve a seat, e-mail info@giaitaly.com, visit www.giaitaly.com, or call Stefania Mele at 39-0444-547-416.

JCK