A Cause Worth Knowing

When we talk about the gemstones we work with, there's a bigger story beyond the stones themselves. The people who cut and shape them are a critical part of that story, and they deserve safe working conditions. Yet, exposure to silica dust can cause silicosis, an incurable lung disease that continues to affect workers and their families throughout the industry.

That's why our Cutting Toward Change fundraiser supports the Peoples Training & Research Centre (PTRC) in Gujarat, India. Their work focuses on raising awareness of silicosis, improving workplace safety, and supporting workers and families affected by the disease. But to better understand why this work matters, it's worth hearing directly from the people involved.

Take a moment to hear from PTRC. In the video below, hear from Director, Jagdish Patel, about their work and the importance of addressing silicosis in the gemstone and jewelry industry.

At Columbia Gem House, gemstones are our business - and the people behind them are an essential part of that business. Supporting safer working conditions and greater awareness of silicosis is one way we can help bring attention to an issue that deserves more recognition.

There's only one week left to enter the raffle. If you haven't purchased your tickets yet, now is the time. For $25 per ticket, you'll have a chance to win one of eight jewelry pieces created by independent designers using gemstones donated by Columbia Gem House, and every dollar from ticket sales goes directly to PTRC to support their work.

Your entry gives you a chance to take home something special while supporting a cause that reaches far beyond the jewelry itself.

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