Join Alistair from Marcus McCallum Ltd for an exciting journey into the heart of Madagascar’s gemstone fields. With a combination of captivating stories, stunning photos, and a showcase of beautiful polished gems, Alistair will take you behind the scenes of the gemmologist’s world—where raw stones are sourced, transformed, and brought to life for collectors and jewellers alike.
As a certified F.G.A gemmologist with a deep passion for both travel and gemstones, Alistair’s journey began with a family legacy at Marcus McCallum. From exploring various life paths to discovering his true calling in the gemstone industry, his adventures have led him to Madagascar, where he works closely with local communities to source exceptional stones while ensuring that the benefits of the land’s rich resources stay within the region.
In this fascinating talk, Alistair will share:
🌍 The challenges and rewards of sourcing gems from Madagascar
🌍 How gemstones go from rough material to beautiful, polished treasures
🌍 The importance of working with local communities for sustainable and ethical sourcing
🌍 A rare chance to hear about the intricate process of gem hunting and discovery
Whether you’re a gemstone enthusiast, a jeweller, or simply curious about the journey from mine to market, this talk offers a unique glimpse into the life of a gemmologist and the beautiful stones that the Marcus McCallum team will be showing at Get Stoned.
About Alistair McCallum
Alistair McCallum is a certified F.G.A. gemmologist at Marcus McCallum Ltd., where a passion for gemstones runs in the family. Fortunate to have Marcus as his uncle, Alistair was introduced to the captivating world of gemstones early on. After exploring various career paths, he discovered his true calling in the gemstone industry and hasn’t looked back. The unique combination of science, beauty, and craftsmanship continues to inspire and drive his work. Being part of this family legacy has provided an exceptional opportunity to rapidly and extensively develop his gemmological expertise.
An avid and adventurous traveller, Alistair spent several years exploring the world before committing to a career in gemmology. This love of travel blends seamlessly with his work, particularly in developing sourcing opportunities in Madagascar. There, he collaborates closely with local communities to ensure that the benefits of the region’s rich natural resources are shared equitably — a cause he is deeply passionate about.
Beyond the world of gemstones, Alistair nurtures a lifelong love of music, having earned a music degree shortly after leaving school. In his free time, he can often be found enjoying a good book with a record spinning in the background.
Committed to upholding and building upon the stellar reputation Marcus McCallum Ltd. has established, Alistair is dedicated to offering exceptional service and sharing his knowledge, expertise, and passion for gemstones with customers for many years to come.