by AIGS

A celebration of where we’ve been, a reflection of who we are today, and a launchpad for where we’re going — together.

The late afternoon sun softened over the city, blessing the capital with a rare reprieve from its usual heat. Inside the halls of the Grande Centre Point_Lumpini Hotel, the atmosphere was anything but quiet. Excitement shimmered in the eyes of organizers and participants alike, as the Asian Institute of Gemological Sciences (AIGS) prepared to host one of its most anticipated gatherings, the AIGS Alumni Connect 2025.

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From as early as 1:30 p.m. of September 7, the venue began filling with guests from across the globe. The organizers, a devoted team of staff and volunteers, welcomed returning alumni with the warmth of fresh coffee, delicate pastries, and heartfelt smiles. For many, this was more than an event; it was a long-awaited reunion.

Among the arrivals were distinguished alumni from AIGS’s earliest days. Khun Nuch, from the class of 1988, graciously donated a vintage microscope to the institute – a symbol of enduring loyalty. Peter, class of 1987, journeyed all the way from London, touching down in Bangkok just in time to join his peers. More than 160 participants, representing countries as far and wide as Bhutan, China, India, Myanmar, the UK, USA, Belgium, Singapore, Canada, France, Vietnam, Portugal, Russia, the Philippines, Pakistan, Turkey, Malaysia, Indonesia, Saudi Arabia, and Germany, made their way to Bangkok for this international reunion of minds and memories.

Part I: Graduation Ceremony

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The evening commenced with a long-awaited moment of recognition: the Accredited Gemologist Graduation Ceremony for students who had completed their studies between 2019 and 2025. Global disruptions had postponed celebrations, but this night, their achievements were finally honored.

The ceremony opened with a warm address from Mr. Kennedy Ho, Chairman of AIGS, followed by a heartfelt thank-you note from graduating student Nathalie Victoria Verwijs. Awards were presented, including distinctions for highest honors, before a group photo captured the joy of the graduates together at last.

Part II: Alumni Connect 2025

Following the ceremony, the spotlight shifted to the Alumni Connect program. Once again, Chairman Ho extended his welcome, reminding everyone that this was not

merely a gathering, but a celebration of nearly five decades of AIGS alumni from 1978 to 2025.

The highlight came with a keynote presentation by Vincent Pardieu, the world-renowned field gemologist and former AIGS team member. His talk on rubies was equal parts science, storytelling, and inspiration, offering rare insights into the field that continues to fascinate and unite the AIGS community.

Next came the official launch of the Alumni Connector Program, introduced by Erika Yu Ya, AIGS’s Head of Communications. Designed as a collaborative platform, the program aims to address pressing alumni concerns, such as career opportunities, networking, visas, and pathways to entrepreneurship. Erika emphasized its core philosophy: Collaboration – Career – Grow Together. QR codes were shared, inviting alumni to register their interest and become part of this new chapter.

Alumni Panel: Voices of Experience

The evening deepened with an engaging Alumni Panel Discussion, moderated by Erika Yu Ya. The panel brought together a diverse group of industry leaders:

· Maneka Karunathilaka @ Tina, Director, Blue Cuts Co., Ltd.

· Dr. Paranee Unmuayruksakul @ Kate, CEO, PSG Bangkok

· Yin Mon Myint @ April, Jewelry Designer & Lifestyle Influencer, Jewel by April

· Nathalie V. Verwijs, Gemologist & Influencer, Journey of a Gem

· Ong LUO BIN @ Robin Ong, Gemologist, Big Lab Research

Their conversation moved seamlessly from personal anecdotes to pressing industry issues such as building trust in difficult situations, navigating cultural differences between Asian and Western markets, and the challenges and triumphs of being women in the gemological sphere. The panel struck a chord with the audience, who listened intently to both candid stories and practical wisdom.

A Night of Connections

As evening descended, the formal sessions gave way to what many considered the highlight, the networking reception. Over wine, cocktails, and laughter, old friends reconnected, new partnerships were sparked, and stories flowed as freely as the drinks. A lively photo booth and AIGS backdrop gave participants a chance to capture the moment in keepsake prints, adding to the celebratory mood.

Dinner was no less memorable. Chairman Ho personally visited each table, engaging in conversation and sharing stories, while live video streamed across the LED screens, creating a sense of unity across the hall. The clinking of glasses, the exchange of contacts, and the warmth of shared purpose carried late into the evening.

A Lasting Memory

For many, AIGS Alumni Connect 2025 was more than just an event, it was a reaffirmation of community, a reminder of shared roots, and a celebration of the global bonds forged through gemology. For the AIGS team, it was equally meaningful: the months of working side by side brought them closer together, strengthening not only their professional ties but also their sense of family.

As the final toasts were raised and farewells exchanged, one sentiment lingered in the air: this was truly an evening to remember for the entire AIGS family.

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