Gemological Institute of America announced Dec. 7 that its
41^st Gemstone Gathering in Thailand will feature guest speaker John
Emmett, Ph.D., a renowned expert in laser physics and gemstone diffusion. Dr.
Emmett will present “Of Beryllium and
Beefsteak: Understanding Diffusion in Gemstones” at the Dec. 14 event in
Bangkok.

Dr. Emmett will share his expertise in diffusion processes,
particularly with regard to minerals, such as corundum, and coloring agents,
such as beryllium. He will also address trends in corundum treatments and
review which gemstones can benefit from diffusion.

“Gemstone diffusion treatment has occurred for many years yet
is often very misunderstood. Dr. Emmett will explain diffusion in simple terms,
and as the title of his presentation implies, will demonstrate that if you can
cook, you can grasp what it is and how it works,” said Kenneth Scarratt,
managing director of GIA Southeast Asia and director of the GIA Laboratory in
Bangkok, in a statement. “We are honored to have Dr. Emmett address our local
gemstone community on this important and dynamic topic. This is truly a rare
opportunity for attendees to learn from one of the top experts in his field.”

The Gemstone Gathering is a free event that will begin at 6
p.m. on Dec. 14 in the Pacific Room 1-3 on the 21^st floor of the Pan
Pacific Bangkok Hotel.

Owing to limited seating, an RSVP must be received by Dec.
13 in order to attend. To RSVP, e-mail giabkklab@gia.edu
or giathai@ksc.th.com; or visit www.giathai.net  and www.giathailand.com.
 

JCK