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GIA Knowledge Sessions

Ethiopia's New Paraíba Tourmaline Source: What the Science Reveals

DATE: Thursday, Oct. 15, 2026 @ 1PM EST / 10AM PST

LOCATION: Zoom

Join GIA expert Dr. Aaron Palke as we unveil groundbreaking research confirming Ethiopia as a significant new source of copper-bearing paraíba tourmaline. This webinar will explore the gemological, chemical, and spectroscopic evidence—including distinctive vanadium, lead, and gallium signatures—that distinguishes this material from known Brazilian, Mozambican, and Nigerian sources. Learn how these findings impact origin determination, identification methods, and the broader colored gemstone market as this new production enters the market.

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Dr. Aaron Palke
is the senior manager of research at GIA. His research is mainly focused on using inclusions, trace element chemistry and spectroscopy to understand the geological origin of gems.

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About GIA

An independent nonprofit organization, GIA (Gemological Institute of America), established in 1931, is recognized as the world’s foremost authority in gemology. GIA invented the famous 4Cs of Color, Clarity, Cut and Carat Weight and, in 1953, created the International Diamond Grading System™ which is recognized around the world as the standard for diamond quality.

Through research, education, gemological laboratory services and instrument development, the Institute is dedicated to ensuring the public trust in gems and jewelry by upholding the highest standards of integrity, academics, science and professionalism.