Knowledge, Connection, and the Stones That Inspire
This fall carried us on two very different but equally inspiring journeys: One rooted in learning and community, the other in discovery and craftsmanship.
Converge 2025 - Carlsbad, California
In September, we traveled to Carlsbad for Converge 2025, the first-ever collaboration between the Gemological Institute of America (GIA) and the American Gem Society (AGS). This landmark event brought together jewelers, gemologists, scientists, and educators from around the world to connect, exchange ideas, and discuss the future of gemology and jewelry.
Highlights from the week included:
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Dr. Beau Lotto, a neuroscientist, opened the conference with reflections on the beauty of imperfection, encouraging us to see the world differently, embrace uncertainty, and thrive in an ever-changing landscape.
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Sustainability was a central theme, with conversations focused on responsible practices, transparency, and ethical sourcing.
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We toured GIA headquarters, where we learned updates on gemstone research, emerging technologies, and innovation that pushes our field forward. Not to mention the incredible museum, library and gemstones lining the hallways.
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Sekou Andrews closed the event, blending spoken word and storytelling to inspire creativity and connection.
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Color was a recurring theme, a reminder of the power it holds in design, emotion, and storytelling.
The spirit of learning and curiosity carried with us as we continued on to Europe...
The Munich Show - Mineralientage München - Munich, Germany
In October, we traveled to Germany for The Munich Show, one of the world’s leading gem and mineral shows. Since 1968, it has been a gathering place for experts, collectors, and artists, an overwhelming and inspiring mix of rare materials and the people who study, source, and shape them.
Before Munich, we took time to visit Bruges and Luxembourg, where our family roots run deep. Over the past few years, Sarah has been uncovering new branches of our family history throughout these regions. Walking through those historic towns, cobblestones, intricate stonework, and centuries of craftsmanship, was a fitting start to the trip and a reminder of where our appreciation for fine workmanship may originate.
We also spent a short time in Paris, and happened to visit the Louvre just days before the now widely reported robbery. After seeing those pieces in person, we can only hope they are recovered. The craftsmanship was astonishing, details that make you slow down and look twice.
Minerals, Markets & the Stones That Came Home With Us
Inside the Munich show, we found ourselves drawn, as we often are, to opals. Australia produces roughly 90 percent of the world's opal, and each region has its own signature look. We spent quite a bit of time with the Australian opal dealers. With upcoming changes in government regulations, many dealers expect prices to rise. We selected several striking pieces, including a suite destined for a future necklace.
Among the minerals and crystals, something unexpected caught our eye: Moldavite. We do not encounter it often, and high-quality pieces are becoming rare. Formed millions of years ago by a meteor impact in Central Europe, Moldavite is a natural glass with a deep green glow. We brought home a few beautiful specimens. We always enjoy designing with unique materials that are not commonly seen.
I could not pass up some beautiful cat’s-eye tourmaline from a dealer we have purchased from before. I am also looking forward to creating a necklace featuring a truly unique custom-cut aquamarine we brought back.
Overall, it was a productive and inspiring trip, lots of learning, great conversations, amazing gemstones, and plenty of ideas to bring back to the studio.
Returning Home Inspired
We returned to the studio full of ideas, full of gratitude and full of the sense of connection that comes from learning, exploration, and time spent with people who love gemstones as much as we do.
Trips like these remind us that gemstones are more than materials; they reflect history, craftsmanship, and the desire to create something lasting. We are excited to begin shaping these new gems into jewelry that will soon become part of someone else’s story.
