[danachit]

Thank you so much for that info Gemgeek. Do you know where I can get some specifics about that lab? I've looked on GIA's site and the show site and can't find it.

[GemGeek]

It works as a stand-alone course (the lab). They teach about pearls, how they form, the different types, etc. The bulk of it is teaching about the seven pearl factors and then letting you handle samples and judge the factors yourself (shape, surface quality, etc.). The handouts include a killer color chart. They don't teach letter grades for pearls, but the combination of factors will allow you to factually evaluate or describe pearls. This was my first GIA course and I loved it.

[pattye]

Hi Danachit,

I think GIA is pretty much closed over the holidays, and will be open Jan 2nd. Look on their site under education then classes and labs, as I recall. Think I will take the course when it is here in Portland OR in March '08. They will offer at other locations throughout the country too. Try calling 1-800-421-7250. Good Luck!

Pattye
so many pearls, so little time

[Ingykiz]

To all of those going to Tucson, I would love to join you at least one day. I am about 2 hours driving distance to Tucson and am pretty flexible as to when I can go. I don't bead,(someday I hope to learn!).
I don't have a tax ID, I just love pearls! I love to read about them, look at them, and buy them! My poor hubby says we are "pearl poor" but is very proud when my pearls are admired when we go out. My friends say I am a pearl "rockstar" because I wear them almost everyday in some form or fashion. Anytime I could join the group would work for me, as this is what I asked for from "Santa".

[Bo Perry]

CULTURED PEARL ASSOCIATION OF AMERICA PRESENTS
MAGICAL GIFTS OF NATURE
IN A
TRAVELING EXHIBITION OF EXTRAORDINARY
AND
INCREDIBLE
CULTURED
AND NATURAL
PEARLS


The CPAA Board of directors is proud to announce that the first ever traveling exhibition will make its premier at the AGTA Tucson Show in February 6th – 11th, 2008.
The exibitition consists of the CPAA’s members most extraordinary and incredible cultured and natural pearls. The CPAA exhibit will be on the main floor of the exhibition hall and forms a pavilion area with the Smithsonian exhibit. On display will be various types of extraordinary pearls never exhibited in public together as a group before.

For more information contact: Kathy Grenier or Bo Perry at 888-32-PEARL Kathy@cpaa.org Boperry@cpaa.org

[Caitlin]

I have updated previous posts with the latest info. Any additions or corrections-let me know...

Jeremy wants to have a meet and greet. Date not set in stone yet, but perhaps The Saturday of the Strack Lecture?

[Caitlin]

GIA pearl grading lab class $225.00
Friday Feb 8, 9AM-4PM TCC Convention Center- Coconino room
To register call 800-421-7250 ext 4001 or www.gia.edu

Friday Feb 8 GIA alumni party. Paid event at the GIA lounge in the Marriott University Park Hotel. For those to whom this applies. unfortunately -not me though I got their brochure .

I'll add more details, later.

[kojimapearl]

Hello, My name is Sarah Canizzaro, of Pacific Pearls and Kojima Company. Until now I have been a silent observer on this forum. Our companies will be exhibiting at the Tucson show this coming February. Starting at the Riverpark Inn booth #CP24 on the 2nd, and as well at the GJX booth #107, starting on the 6th. Carolyn Ehret mentioned that you will be stopping by our booth on your walk. I look forward to meeting you all face to face. As a family we are three generations in the pearl industry, I am sure we will have lots to talk about. Please feel free if you have any questions prior to the event..
Cheers, and a pearly grin!
Sarah
kojima88@hotmail.com

[GemGeek]

I love the Kojima Pearl website, where I like to visit the kasumi photos.

[pbazar]

We have made one of the largest purchases of loose Tahitian pearls and have been busy transforming them into strands and other lots. In addition we will have Gem Eyris Blue Pearls from New Zealand as well as Pearls and Keshi from the Cook Islands and much more. Stop by Imperial at Booth 325 at the AGTA.

[Caitlin]

Jeremy has just told me he will be here for the Strack lecture on Sat, Feb 9th at 9am and a pearl walk afterward.

Please PM me if you will be there (if you haven't already) so we can make some plans.

Pearlgully, Would you join us this year for the pearl walk? Blaire, Will you still be here?

[Pearlgully]

Originally Posted by Caitlin Williams

Pearlgully, Would you join us this year for the pearl walk?

Thanks, I'd love to. I can't wait.

I'll be heading for Arizona earlier than originally planned.......I'm going to the Super Bowl. GO GIANTS!



Gail (from NY)

[Slraep]

Sigh. Hubby is in Arizona for a week right now. I would have tagged along had the timing been around Feb 1st. Sigh. Oh well.

Slraep

[GemGeek]

I'm not sure about my plans because Mom had a back injury and I might need to leave early. If I'm still around, I'll probably have a guest that I promised to take on a tour of AGTA. I don't think she'll want to sit through the lecture, so I'll meet you right after the lecture and see what she thinks about going-with. I can't wait to meet you all! You know what I look like, so be sure to come up and say "hi".

[GemGeek]

I have to drive from San Diego to Tucson on SuperBowl Sunday.