US Official Jose W. Fernandez to Speak at JA NY Show Panel

(IDEX Online News) – US Assistant Secretary for Economic and Business Affairs Jose W. Fernandez will take part in a panel session called "Living Up To Diamonds" at the JA New York Show on Monday, July 29.

Assistant Secretary of State Fernandez is the top U.S. official overseeing government policy related to the Kimberley Process. Nominated by President Barack Obama in 2009, he has pushed for change and responsible sourcing in the diamond and jewelry industry.

"Assistant Secretary Jose Fernandez's appearance underlines the need for the jewelry industry to take a proactive leadership role in ensuring our products are sourced in a responsible manner," said JA President & CEO David J. Bonaparte.

The panel will discuss the important projects that help jewelers support diamond communities, source responsibly and protect consumers' confidence in diamonds, Jewelers of America said.

Bonaparte will appear on the panel, along with Dr. Benjamin Chavis, Senior Strategic Advisor, Diamond Empowerment Fund; Cecilia Gardner, President, CEO & General Counsel, Jewelers Vigilance Committee; Ngomesia Mayer-Kechom, Manager for International Programs, Diamond Development Initiative International; and Martin Rapaport, Chairman, Rapaport Group. The session will be moderated by Whitney Sielaff, Publisher and Editorial Director of National Jeweler.