ICA Launches Prestigious Colored Gemstone Documentary Series;
First DVD Covers Kashmiri Sapphire, Topaz and Tourmaline

New York, March 9, 2004 -- Jean Claude Michelou, an ICA executive committee member of Colombia, announced that the first DVD in ICA’s much-anticipated documentary series “In Pursuit of Precious Gemstones” has been produced and is now ready for distribution.

The series, produced by ICA in cooperation with renowned French gemologist Patrick Voillot, will consist of four DVDs, each with three full, hour-long documentaries that mix a serious scientific approach with high adventure and no small amount of danger, as the viewer is taken to the magical places where rare colored gemstones are found. Each expedition visits a different country, centers around a particular gemstone from that area, and exposes the viewer to some of the most isolated, forgotten corners of the planet.

Each DVD has English and French soundtracks, making it an ideal colored gemstone primer throughout the U.S. and Canada. In Europe, the DVD will also feature soundtrack in Spanish, Italian and German. Never dry or technical, the series shows the intrepid Voillot climbing down mud holes in Mogok, Burma, in search of rubies, and trekking across dangerous glaciers in the mountains of Kashmir. In search of sapphires, he takes the viewer deep into the fascinating and seldom-seen world of the international gem dealer, showing secret mine locations, cutting and polishing operations, and the gemstone markets and distribution channels from country to country.

Not only is ICA’s “In Pursuit of Colored Gemstones” series an exciting world travelogue and introduction to the exciting international world of colored gemstones, but it will make an ideal sales tool for retailers who want to add some sizzle to the steak by conveying to their clients not just the rarity and value of colored gemstones, but their inherent beauty, excitement and romance. Realizing their entertainment as well as educational value, several national and public television stations have expressed an interest in broadcasting these programs to their mass audiences.

The first DVD features sapphires from Kashmir; giant crystals and imperial topaz from Brazil; and tourmalines of Madagascar, including sapphires from the fabulous Illakaka mines. Programs on the upcoming DVDs in ICA’s series include: Ruby from Burma; Emerald from Colombia; Moonstone & Sapphires from Sri Lanka; Jade from Guatemala; Aquamarine from Pakistan; Ametrine from Bolivia; Tanzanite from Tanzania; Opal from Australia; and Colored Diamonds from Guinea.

“ICA’s foremost task is the promotion of colored gemstones downstream, among retailers and ultimately among jewelry consumers,” Michelou stated. “This project is a giant step forward and emphasizes our organization’s endeavor to become the major promotional engine for the colored gemstone trade.”

To order “In Pursuit of Colored Gemstones: Vol. 1” and subsequent volumes as they become available, go to the Orderpage, contact gembureau@gemstone.org or call in USA

Toll-free: 1 877-422-4757
Phone: 1 973-812-4757
Fax: 1 615-538-9909

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