Professionals and visitors looking to delve into the world of gems and jewelry are welcome to visit the GIA (Gemological Institute of America) World Headquarters in Carlsbad, California on Friday, Oct. 11, for the GIA Jewelry Career Fair and Open House. This free event has something for everyone – lively panel discussions, career coaching and recruiting for people new to the industry and professionals looking for a career change; classroom demonstrations for aspiring gemologists, jewelers and jewelry designers; and unique museum exhibits for anyone captivated by the splendor and beauty of gems. GIA’s Jewelry Career Fair and Open House is the one time of year when the public can visit without a prior appointment from 8:00 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. For more information and to register, visit GIA.edu/career-fair-carlsbad-day-at-a-glance.

 The event kicks off with inspiring panel discussions featuring notable gem and jewelry leaders: 

• Job Success in Today’s Market 8:45-10:00 a.m.

Moderated by Susan M. Jacques, president and CEO of GIA. Panelists include Mitchell Binder, King Baby; Cathy Calhoun, Calhoun Jewelers; Douglas K. Hucker, American Gem Trade Association (AGTA); and Meghan Simmons, Omi Privé.

• Creative Careers 10:30 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.

Moderated by Mark Smelzer, publisher of JCK magazine and JCKonline.com. The conversation will focus on unique careers by panelists Baba Blumkin, Luxe Jewelry and Loan; Wade Clar, Julez Bryant; Alexandra Hart, Alexandra Hart; and Jenny Luker, Platinum Guild International USA.

Job seekers can connect with recruiters from all over the country who represent local and global brands – including Brilliant Earth, The Real Real and Diamonds Direct – looking for top talent in all areas of the industry. Employers interest in recruiting at this year’s event can sign-up at GIAevents.eventsair.com/career-fair-carlsbad/recruiter-registration/Site/Register.

 Open house guests are invited to explore the many beautiful museum exhibits featuring more than 1,000 pieces – the newest exhibit, Jewels of Hollywood, showcases pieces linked to Hollywood royalty of decades past – and to visit the Richard T. Liddicoat Gemological Library and Information Center, the world’s largest for gem and jewelry, which includes the Cartier Rare Book Repository. There will also be classroom demonstrations of the many education courses offered on campus and the GemKids program that offers students ages 9 to 12 an engaging introduction into gemology.