‘GIA Celebrates Birthstones’ unveils at San Diego International Airport

The San Diego International Airport had launched an initiative – ‘Art Program’ in 2006, to inform and excite travelers attention with exhibits that are unique to San Diego, through innovative, memorable and considerate experiences and in turn welcoming people to the airport and region. As part of this programme this year, the Airport Authority joined GIA (Gemological Institute of America) in officially opening the “GIA Celebrates Birthstones” which will feature through February 20, 2012 in Terminal 2 West, post-security.

The exhibit was unveiled on September 14. It contains more than 250 gems, minerals and jewelry from around the world, including lavish displays showcasing birthstones for each month of the year, as well as an enormous 22,000-carat faceted quartz and a replica of the jeweled Victoria’s Secret Bra.

Representatives from both the Airport Authority and GIA addressed the crowd, including GIA President and CEO Donna Baker. “Baker said, “In selecting a focus for this display, we wanted to be relevant and appealing to all travelers from around the globe. Since everyone has a birthstone, it was the perfect choice. Our mission is to protect the public trust in gems and jewelry – and engaging, inspiring and educating people about gems and jewelry is part of that mission.”

The ‘Art Program’ consists of three components: temporary and rotating exhibits, performing arts and public art.