The President's Message - August 2025
ICA President
It was a great pleasure to attend the recent ICA Congress held in the extraordinary city of Brasília, the capital of Brazil. Our generous Brazilian hosts welcomed around 200 delegates with an experience that was both engaging and vibrant.
Brasília itself offered a unique backdrop — a city that stands as a bold testament to human creativity and vision. Conceived by the legendary Oscar Niemeyer and Lucio Costa, its modernist architecture and urban planning reflect an ambitious utopian dream realized on a grand scale.
Brazil is home to an incredible diversity of gemstones—hundreds of varieties—drawn from the earth in regions that some of us were fortunate to visit during the amazing post-congress mine tour.
The theme of this Congress, Gems for Generations, set the stage for a dynamic program. We heard from an impressive lineup of speakers—leaders, innovators, and experts from across our industry—who shared insights on a wide range of pressing and future-focused topics. The auditorium was filled with energy from morning to evening, and our nights were enriched by the vibrant spirit of Brazilian culture.
We were also able to bestow the honour of Lifetime Achievement Awards to two icons of our industry: Dr. Gaetano Cavalieri of CIBJO and Susan Jacques of GIA. Their lifelong commitment and passion continue to inspire all of us.
On behalf of the entire ICA community, I extend heartfelt thanks to our Brazilian partners at IBGM, the dedicated ICA Congress team, our outstanding speakers and presenters, and our generous sponsors. Your efforts made this Congress not only possible, but unforgettable.
This was my eleventh ICA Congress, and I will always regard it as one of the most memorable. What stood out most was the strength and unity of our diverse global community. The industry continues to face challenges, and the ICA family meets with resilience and purpose, and it is at gatherings like this that our collective spirit shines brightest.
Thank you, Brazil. We now look forward with great anticipation to the next ICA Congress.