Alfie Museum Classroom Reservation
When
A colored gemstone’s origin is reflected in its structure, inclusions, color, and value. After centuries of mining in regions that produce the majority of our rubies and sapphires, the past few decades have revealed new sources that yield incredible specimens. In this hands-on seminar, GIA experts will provide an in-depth understanding of characteristic inclusion scenes of rubies and sapphires from lesser-known deposits that must be considered in today’s colored stone market. From sapphires mined in Montana to Tanzania and Afghanistan and rubies from Kenya to Sri Lanka or even Greenland, learners will experience practical lessons in identifying these alternative deposits and understand their place in the crowded, complex global colored stone trade.
Speaker Information:
Dr. Aaron Palke developed an interest in minerals and gemstones searching for agates and other minerals in eastern Montana. He was particularly struck by the geographic distribution of mineral and gem deposits and geological features, for instance, why were there mountains and an abundance of mineral deposits in Montana but not in his home state of Oklahoma? These questions led Dr. Palke to pursue a formal education in geology, obtaining a Bachelor of Science degree from The University of Tulsa and a Ph.D. from Stanford University. Dr. Palke began his gemological career as a Postdoctoral Research Associate at the Gemological Institute of America where he is now the Senior Manager of Colored Stone Research. In this role, Dr. Palke leads GIA’s research efforts into geographic origin determination for rubies, sapphires, emeralds and other colored stones as well as improving criteria for identification of treatments for colored stones. Dr. Palke is a regular contributor to Gems & Gemology and serves on the journal’s editorial review board.
Key Highlights
- Understand key ruby and sapphire regions that fall outside the “usual suspects”
- Practice spotting the characteristic inclusions typically found in a region’s deposits
- Learn how these regions impact the appearance, value, and sourcing in the market
- Test your knowledge with hands-on training in a fully-equipped classroom lab
How it Works
This in-person seminar will be held at the Alfie Norville Gem & Mineral Museum in Tucson, Arizona. The number of attendees will be limited to ensure the best experience possible.
All attendees will receive a digital Letter of Attendance that can be proudly displayed to celebrate your accomplishment.
More information about seminar location and arrival details will be sent to registered learners prior to the beginning of the seminar.
Cost
$450 USD (GIA Alumni receive a 10% discount)