By Emily Stegman

Guests were invited to explore the facility's three classroms for demonstrations on GIA's gemology, jewelry design and business courses. Dr. Mink Stavenga (pictured), dean of GIA's School of Business, was on hand to discuss course options with prospective students interested in the business side of the industry. Photo by Valerie Power

The Institute's collection of award-winning pieces from the American Jewelry Design Council (AJDC) – a nonprofit educational corporation that recognizes and promotes the appreciation of original jewelry design as art – was on display in the campus gallery for the nearly 100 guests to view.

Guests were also welcome to participate in classroom demonstrations of CAD/CAM (computer-aided drafting/computer-aided manufacturing), jewelry design, gemology and business coursework, and discuss these programs with GIA instructors.

Elizabeth Liber, an L.A. County local who found out about GIA through various jewelers, said she's always had an interest in gems and jewelry and wanted to learn more about the Institute.

"It was my first time visiting [GIA] and I was very impressed. I learned that it is possible to do it all," she said. Liber also said that after attending the open house event and discussing her options with instructors, she plans to enroll in GIA's Graduate Gemologist and Pearl programs once she's finished her liberal arts major at Santa Monica College.

GIA President Donna Baker formally welcomed the crowd before leading everyone in a champagne toast to celebrate the past 10 years. The L.A. campus was established in 1997 in the downtown jewelry district and moved to its Culver City location in 2004.

Attendees enjoyed a spread of hors d'oeuvres. Photo by Valerie Power

"With more classrooms and a college-like atmosphere, this location has allowed us to educate more students to help meet the gem and jewelry industry's needs for trained professionals, and in the process has made learning more enjoyable," said Veronica Clark-Hudson, director of GIA L.A.

Jewelry designers and AJDC members Alishan Halebian, Paul Klecka and Mark Schneider participated in a panel discussion about career paths for prospective jewelry designers and offered their perspectives on the industry. They also brought along some of their own jewelry pieces, which were placed in GIA L.A.'s display cases exclusively for the night's event.

"The designers were happy to share their knowledge with students and guests. They stressed that a GIA education and learning aspects of business management is extremely important in this industry," Clark-Hudson said.

Guests viewed pieces from GIA's AJDC collection and jewelry brought to the event by visiting designers and panelists Alishan Halebian, Paul Klecka and Mark Schneider. Photo by Valerie Power

"We are so delighted to be able to celebrate this occasion with so many guests, students and staff members," Clark-Hudson said. "We look forward to many more years of service to the L.A. community."

For more information about GIA L.A., call (310) 670-2100 or e-mail laedu@gia.edu.

Lori Geller (right), On Campus Operations supervisor for GIA L.A., told guests and prospective students about the Institute's course offerings and upcoming schedule. Photo by Eric Welch

Designer Paul Klecka addressed the crowd during a panel discussion with fellow designers Alishan Halebian and Mark Schneider. The trio related their own experiences in the gem and jewelry industry and offered advice and insight into possible career paths. Photo by Eric Welch

Jewelry designer and AJDC member Mark Schnieder talked to guests about career options in the gem and jewelry industry. Photo by Valerie Power