More than 400 members of the gemstone trade are expected to gather for the 16th Congress of the International Colored Gemstone Association (ICA) to be held at Colombo from May 16th to 19th, 2015, according to ICA Ambassador to Sri Lanka, Altaf Iqbal.

Briefing the media about the event, Altaf said that the discussions at the Congress will be centred around new trends in the industry, new markets and changing consumer preferences. Delegates will also get a chance to learn more about the Sri Lankan coloured gemstone industry, he added.

Chairman of the Sri Lanka Congress Committee, A.H.M. Imtizam also told the media that the Congress theme, “Sapphire and MORE…” would also help bridge gaps about the gem sources in the country, and focus on increasing awareness about different types of gemstones in the consumer mind.

The Keynote address will be given by well known writer and motivational speaker, David Schwartz, while other prominent gemstone experts who will address special sessions include Richard Hughes, Edward Boehm, Ken Scarratt, and Dr. A. Peretti, among others.

The event is preceded by a special Gem Show and other social and sporting events. Delegates will also have the chance to participate in the post-Congress Mine tour to well known gem mines and markets in Ratnapuraand Elahera, and world famous heritage sites in the vicinity.