CIBJO President Gaetano Cavalieri has been named an Honorary Fellow of the Gemmological Association of Great Britain (Gem-A) in recognition of his outstanding contribution to the field of gemmology. The award was made by Gem-A President Harry Levy during the association's graduation ceremony at Goldsmith's Hall in London on November 3.

With its goal of advancing the science and practice of gemmology though education and training, Gem-A is the world's longest established provider of gem and jewellery education, with its Gemmology Diploma being a direct descendant of the gem course that was proposed for the UK jewellery trade in 1908. Today the organisation provides courses in gemmology and diamond grading in some 25 countries around the world, and also produces two trade publications, Gems & Jewellery and The Journal of Gemmology. "Gaetano has been a significant figure in shaping the industry over the last 10 years," said James Riley, Gem-A's CEO," obtaining UN recognition of CIBJO and its associated bodies, and ensuring that the voice of the jewellery industry is represented on the world stage." "Gem-A is delighted to be able to award Gaetano an Honorary Fellowship in light of his efforts on behalf of both the association and the wider industry. The work he has done on issues of ethics and social responsibility is unparalleled and we're certain that his continued work will only strengthen the industry and leave a lasting legacy we can all be proud of," Mr. Riley added.