GIA Head Susan Jacques To Be Guest Of Honor At Diamond Week

(IDEX Online News) – Susan Jacques, President and CEO of the GIA (Gemological Institute of America), will be the guest of honor of the International Diamond Week to be held September 1-4 at the Israel Diamond Exchange (IDE).

Jacques accepted an invitation from IDE President Shmuel Schnitzer to attend the event.

"It will be our honor to host Susan Jacques at the upcoming diamond week," said Schnitzer. "Women play an increasingly important role in the diamond gem and jewelry supply pipeline and Jacques is yet another shining example of how women have succeeded and climbed the career ladder in our industry," he stated.

"At the IDE, we currently have some 250 female bourse members, which is just under 10 percent of the total membership. However, looking at the numbers of women among our young, candidate members, it is obvious that their numbers will rise soon. I am sure that the GIA president will be offering them sound advice."

In her acceptance letter, Jacques wrote: "I am honored to be recognized by such a respected organization, one that plays such an important role in the industry. My career has taken many delightful turns and I … appreciate the opportunity to share my experiences."

Ella Melamed, a rough diamond specialist, a member of the IDW organizing committee and a prominent member of the IDE's Women's Business Forum, said, "Worldwide, female diamond exchange members are still a small minority, but in Israel we're making very fast progress. We're therefore looking forward to meeting Ms. Jacques, to hear her speak her mind and to exchange ideas."