The Natural Color Diamond Association (NCDIA) made some additions in the educational program at AGS Conclave next month, and will also sponsor two interactive presentations by NCDIA’s director of education, Tom Gelb, “Identification of Diamond Treatments and Synthetics.” In the seminars, attendees will get a chance to look through microscopes and see what some common treatments and synthetic diamonds look like.

With 20 years in the diamond industry, Gelb has gained much experience in evaluating diamonds, some important ones like the Hope Diamond. He also served at the Gemological Institute of America (GIA), and as manager of the grading laboratory at Harry Winston. He has founded Gelb Gemological Consulting, which provides gemological and business consulting to both the diamond trade and the public.

NCDIA's president, Jeff Post said, “Our association’s role is promoting natural color diamonds, which is why it’s important for retailers to be able to distinguish natural from treated or synthetics. We feel that the information Tom will provide is going to give retailers confidence in discussing this important distinction with their customers.”

During the Conclave, NCDIA will offer a one-time discount of 10 percent off their membership rates to conference attendees. NCDIA representatives will be on sight during the Conclave providing more information about the organization.