(PRESS RELEASE) NEW YORK — Gems Keep Giving, an International Colored Gemstone (ICA) industry initiative that supports communities in artisanal colored gemstone mining and cutting communities, has recently reorganized, appointing a new board and Chair. Securing its stature as an independent, not-for-profit (501-C3) charitable organization, Gems Keep Giving newly elected Board members are Hayley Henning (Chair), Damien Cody, Clement Sabbagh, Ruth Benjamin-Thomas, Brian Cook, Rocco Gay, Cecilia Gardner, Robert Weldon and Henry Ho.
“Our illustrious board members are seasoned professionals from all facets of our industry,” said Board Chair Hayley Henning. “Together, we intend to raise funds to support colored gemstone mining and cutting communities that need it most. Gems Keep Giving originated as an initiative of the International Colored Stone Association (ICA), and we intend to leverage our relationships within ICA to support the communities that serve them.
The colored gemstone supply pipeline is inherently different from the diamond industry. The majority of colored gems, in dozens of varieties, are produced by artisanal miners worldwide, most often in areas where the economic, political, social, and infrastructural circumstances are highly challenging. “The international gemstone industry and trade fully depend on these mining communities and the people that comprise them, without whom we wouldn’t have gemstones! It is in the interest of all stakeholders to support and help sustain these communities, ensuring that they thrive and develop for future generations. Gems Keep Giving offers businesses in our industry, across the supply chain, an opportunity and a platform to contribute towards their well-being, bearing in mind the Sustainable Development Goals (SDG), as set out by the United Nations,” Henning stated. She added that each application for funding will be considered on its merits after submission to the Gems Keep Giving website or through direct contact with members of the affected communities.
Henning said that with the restructuring of Gems Keep Giving, the organization will be able to broaden its reach, seeking contributions and assistance from socially conscious industry stakeholders, corporate sponsors, foundations, and other gem-loving and enthusiastic donors. “Please take a look at our refreshed website for more information. Gemskeepgiving.org. All donations are fully tax-deductible as allowed by law”, she emphasized.
