Get Stoned Gem Fair Announces Inspiring Talks Program for Glasgow
03 Apr 2025
Get Stoned Gem Fair is set to take over the magnificent Trades Hall in the heart of Glasgow on 1st May, bringing together gem enthusiasts, jewellers, and collectors for a vibrant day of discovery. Alongside an exceptional line-up of over 20 carefully curated gem suppliers, attendees will have the opportunity to attend an inspiring series of talks led by renowned experts in the field.
The Talks Program has now been announced, offering a diverse range of topics designed to educate, intrigue, and inspire.
The talks are free for all attendees and will take place in the Reception Room of Trades Hall.
Kicking off the program is gemmologist Alistair McCallum, part of the Marcus McCallum team, who will share captivating tales from his travels through the gem fields of Madagascar.
Next, crowd favourite Kerry Gregory of Gemmology Rocks delivers her signature no-nonsense talk on spotting so-called gemstone bargains—so you’ll know exactly what you're buying.
We then turn our focus to Scottish gemstones and jewellery with an informal panel discussion hosted by Edinburgh jewellery boutique ætla. Keira Wraee-Stewart will be joined by fine jewellery designer Ebba Goring and Ruth Davis, Head of Jewellery at Lyon & Turnbull, for a lively conversation on how place and culture shape design.
Closing the day, Whitby jet specialist Sarah Caldwell-Steele takes us on a thrilling journey through the dark and mysterious history of jet—exploring its connections to vampires, mummies, and demonic possession!
Get Stoned Gem Fair is for the jewellery trade – this includes designers, makers, jewellery professionals, gemmologists and students. Tickets are available on the Get Stoned website.
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Talk One – Alistair’s Adventures in Madagascar: From Gem Fields to Polished Jewels
Speaker: Alistair, Marcus McCallum Ltd
Embark on an unforgettable journey with Alistair from Marcus McCallum Ltd as he takes you deep into the heart of Madagascar’s gemstone fields. Through captivating stories, stunning visuals, and a showcase of exquisite polished gems, Alistair offers a behind-the-scenes glimpse into the world of gemmology—where raw stones are unearthed, meticulously transformed, and brought to life for collectors and jewellers alike.
Talk Two – Why is that Gemstone so Cheap? Have You Really Got a Bargain?
Speaker: Kerry Gregory, Gemmology Rocks
When you come across a coloured gemstone with a price that seems too good to be true, is it really a hidden treasure—or is there more than meets the eye? Join Kerry Gregory of Gemmology Rocks for an eye-opening talk that will forever change how you evaluate gemstone pricing, helping you spot real value and avoid potential pitfalls.
Talk Three – Celebrating Scottish Gemstones and Jewellery
Speakers: Keira Wraae-Stewart; ætla, Ebba Goring; Independent Fine Jeweller, Ruth Davis; Lyon & Turnbull
Explore the rich heritage and vibrant future of Scottish jewellery in this engaging and informal panel discussion. Our expert panel will delve into the stories, materials, and cultural significance behind Scottish gemstones and jewellery today—highlighting everything from locally sourced gold and gems to the deep-rooted traditions that inspire contemporary designs.
Talk Four – Vampires, Mummies, and Demonic Possession: The Legacy of Whitby’s Jet
Speaker: Sarah Caldwell Steele
There are gems prized for their beauty, others for their rarity—and then there are those believed to save your soul. Whitby jet is one such gemstone: organic, ancient, and steeped in mystery. Once thought to guard against the forces of darkness, this gemstone has a story that spans centuries, blending mythology, superstition, and gemmology. With a lifelong passion for black gemstones and a career dedicated to their study, Sarah Caldwell Steele is recognised as the world’s leading authority on these fascinating materials.
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More Than Just a Gem Fair
Get Stoned Gem Fair is not your typical trade show—it's a fun, dynamic, and inclusive event that blends education, inspiration, and community. Attendees can:
• Browse an incredible selection of sparkling stones from established suppliers like GF Williams and innovative names such as Misfit Diamonds.
• Gain hands-on experience in our interactive workshops.
• Participate in exciting competitions to win dazzling gemstone prizes.
• Enjoy free talks on a range of gemmological topics.
• Access exclusive offers from select exhibitors and explore new tools through live demonstrations.
• Networking with drinks from Glasgow Gin
• Offers from the official sponsors; NAJ, Retail Jeweller and JewelAds.
Every exhibitor, speaker, and demonstrator has been handpicked by the Get Stoned founders to ensure they are authentic, knowledgeable, and passionate about their craft—ready to share their expertise and inspire attendees.
Thursday, 1st May 2025
Opening Hours: 10am – 8pm
Trades Hall of Glasgow, 85 Glassford Street G1 1UH
View Get Stoned
Source: Get Stoned