Honoring Excellence in Responsible Practice and Contributions to the Industry
Initiatives in Art and Culture (IAC) will honor Torrance D. Hoover and Cristina Echavarria with the Award for Leadership in Responsible Practice and Gaetano Cavalieri with the Award for Extraordinary Contributions to the Diamond and Jewelry Industries during the 14th Annual Gold and Diamond Conference.
Conference Overview
New York, NY – July 3, 2024: IAC’s 14th Annual Gold and Diamond Conference will be held at the Bohemian National Hall from July 16-17, 2024, following a welcome reception hosted by Heritage Auctions on the evening of July 15th. The conference will feature industry leaders, academics, and representatives from trade organizations and NGOs worldwide. The theme “Expanding Horizons” emphasizes fostering innovative perspectives and collaborative efforts within the gold, diamond, and jewelry sectors.
Building on Previous Success
Following last year’s “Maintaining Purpose” conference, the 2024 event will delve into driving positive change in the mining and jewelry sectors. Topics include climate change, gender inequality, and the socio-economic realities of mining communities, aiming to inspire stakeholders to embrace innovative approaches for a better future.
Keynote Remarks and Opening Panel
Day 1: Tuesday, July 16
The conference begins with registration and a coffee reception, followed by opening remarks from Lisa Koenigsberg, IAC’s President and Founder. The opening panel, titled “Cross-Industry Convergence and Collaboration,” will explore the feasibility and challenges of fostering collaboration across diverse sectors within the jewelry industry. The panel includes distinguished speakers like Gaetano Cavalieri and Satta Matturi, among others.
Session Highlights
Diamonds in Botswana
Mmetla Masire, CEO of Okavango Diamond Company, will present the unique aspects of the diamond industry in Botswana. The discussion will cover value retention in producer countries, government policies, and value chain participation.
Retaining Value in Producing Countries
A panel moderated by Brecken Branstrator, Editor-in-Chief of Gemworld, will feature strategies used in various countries to retain more value from their natural resources. Panelists include industry leaders such as Avi Levy and Marcelo Ribeiro.
Single Mine, Single Source
The session after lunch will explore the intricacies and benefits of sourcing gold from single mines. Panelists will discuss traceability, sustainability, and how such practices enhance transparency and consumer trust.
Awards Presentation
The day will culminate with an awards presentation and reception. Torrance D. Hoover and Cristina Echavarria will receive the Award for Leadership in Responsible Practice, while Gaetano Cavalieri will be honored with the Award for Extraordinary Contributions to the Diamond and Jewelry Industries.
Continuing the Dialogue
Day 2: Wednesday, July 17
The second day begins with a focus on climate change actions beyond net zero and the concept of a just transition. This panel, moderated by John Mulligan, will explore challenges and opportunities from the perspectives of developing economies.
Cultural Heritage and Artistic Practice
Moderated by Andrew Russeth of ArtNet, this session will delve into the intersection of cultural heritage, artistic practice, provenance, and repatriation, featuring insights from Emefa Cole and Lucian Simmons.
Responsible Sourcing and Supply Chain Due Diligence
Edward Bickham of the World Gold Council will lead a discussion on responsible sourcing and supply chain due diligence, examining current regulations and guidance shaping due diligence in supply chains.
Human and Labor Rights
A critical discussion on human and labor rights moderated by Edward Bickham will explore the foundation laid by the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR) and its implications for the jewelry industry.
Luncheon and Afternoon Sessions
The afternoon includes a luncheon sponsored by the World Bank, focusing on sustainable and safe mining practices. Additional panels will explore topics such as funding scalable solutions in the ASM sector and training the next generation of jewelers and industry leaders.
Exploring New Frontiers
Join IAC’s 14th Annual Gold and Diamond Conference at Bohemian National Hall, New York, from July 16-17, 2024. Register on Eventbrite and learn more about IAC at Initiatives in Art and Culture.
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About IAC
IAC educates diverse audiences in visual culture, emphasizing authenticity, sustainability, and cross-disciplinary approaches. IAC’s conferences, webinars, publications, and exhibitions address issues related to fabrication, connoisseurship, cultural patrimony, preservation, and the future of culture. For more information on IAC, visit Initiatives in Art and Culture or email info@artinitiatives.com.
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