Establishing Consumer Confidence through the Jewelry Value Chain
Institute hosts special event for GIA Alumni in South Africa
JOHANNESBURG – March 18, 2012 – As the South African jewelry industry continues to develop, grow and prosper, each part of the value chain – from mining and manufacturing to the jewelry counter – has the opportunity to create a robust customer experience by building consumer confidence. On March 9, nearly 30 members from the newly formed GIA (Gemological Institute of America) Alumni Chapter in Johannesburg gathered to hear from Lourens Maré, CEO of The Jewellery Council of South Africa, on effective ways to develop consumer confidence.The interactive session discussed how the consumer dictates market need, and emphasized the importance of transparency in all areas of the industry. By establishing legally compliant, ethical and environmentally conscious practices from the beginning, Maré noted that jewelry businesses can save costs and leverage business opportunities.
“We’re thrilled to have had Lourens speak to GIA’s newly-minted alumni chapter in Johannesburg. GIA is committed to promoting the public trust in the gem and jewelry industry worldwide and this session was certainly aligned with that mission,” said Elizabeth Bokaba, GIA’s alumni and client relations manager in Africa. “We look forward to many more alumni seminars, events and networking opportunities in Africa.”
Maré has more than 14 years of experience in various sectors of the industry including education, retail and training. In addition to leading The Jewellery Council of South Africa, he serves on numerous boards, and is the vice president of three divisions within CIBJO, The World Jewellery Confederation.
For information about GIA alumni events in South Africa, contact us.
