The Rapaport International Diamond Conference will take place on September 12, 2011 at the New York Times Center. The conference, which will be held from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., will focus on "the market for luxury jewelry" and "diamonds and social responsibility – real solutions to real problems."

To begin, Sotheby's Chairman of North and South America Lisa Hubbard and Senior Specialist Gary Schuler will speak on the growing importance of the Chinese market. President of Unity Marketing Pam Danziger will talk about changing consumer values and new marketing strategies. A panel discussion will conclude the morning session; it will focus on design and jewelry trends. Panel members will include Red Carpet commentator and stylist Michael O'Connor; Fragments designer jewelry showroom owner Janet Goldman; jewelry designers Nina Runsdorf and Laura Aman; and designer Kerri Halpern of Madstone. The panel will be moderated by Editor-in-Chief of the Rapaport Magazine Amber Michelle.

The afternoon portion of the conference will cover ethical sourcing, including practical solutions to human rights violations in the jewelry supply chain.

The conference is open to everyone at no charge, although participants are asked to donate $50 or more to the Jewelers for Children charity. The conference will be broadcast live online as well. Registration is open at www.diamonds.net/idc.