The International Colored Gemstone Association (ICA) has opened a new category in its membership categories in which jewelry retailers are given associate member status. ICA is a network of 700 members from 48 countries comprising of miners, cutters, and wholesalers of colored gemstones. Its existing category of associate members include jewelry manufacturers, gemological laboratories, representatives of industry organizations and government agencies, members of the media, and other supporting industry services, who will now be joined by the jewellery retailers.

This new move will enable jewellery retailers to take advantage of the many ICA networking and sourcing opportunities, exposure to the world market, accessing the wholesale pricing structure, an increased availability of gemstones, education, and easy access to international trends and business opportunities. By including jewelry retailers in the ICA worldwide network, ICA succeeds in its mission to be an integral part of the pipeline from mine to market.