The International Colored Gemstone Association (ICA) has quietly shaped the global trade of colored gemstones for nearly four decades, yet its impact remains largely unrecognized outside industry circles. Established in 1984, the nonprofit now unites over 500 industry leaders—miners, cutters, retailers, laboratories, and educators—spread across 47 countries. Their mission centers on standardizing trade practices and increasing recognition for colored stones beyond traditional precious metals like diamonds and gold.
The ICA distinguishes itself through its network of country ambassadors, who serve as local representatives for the organization. These ambassadors do more than promote the ICA; they act as connectors between members, media outlets, and regional trade bodies. Thailand, home to the second-largest ICA membership after the United States, became a strategic focus for this role. In 2023, Ashoo Sinchawla, director of Sant Enterprises Co Ltd, assumed the position of ICA Ambassador to Thailand.
Thailand’s gemstone industry holds a dominant position globally, but its status as the ICA’s second-largest membership highlighted the need for a dedicated advocate. With amount of events and activities that we do among ourselves is also important to have someone to oversee everything and that’s where the role of ICA Ambassador comes into play, Sinchawla stated. Unlike ICA directors, who shape policies and global initiatives, Sinchawla’s role emphasizes local engagement. This includes organizing events, recruiting new members, and ensuring Thailand’s perspectives are included in international discussions.
Thailand’s Growing Role in Global Gemstone Events
Her first major project took place in September 2023, when she coordinated a gathering for ICA members during the Bangkok Show. The event attracted participants from around the world and generated strong interest in joining the association. Moving forward, she plans to host similar meetings twice a year, timed with the February and September Bangkok Shows. Additional seminars, co-hosted with member gem laboratories, will explore advancements in technology and industry trends, reinforcing Thailand’s reputation as a center for knowledge in the sector.
Over the past decade, Thailand’s gemstone industry has seen a notable increase in female participation. Women now occupy leading roles as designers, gemologists, dealers, and retailers, a development Sinchawla attributes to broader access to social media and technology. As a female leader in Thailand, one of the positive aspects is the increasing recognition and appreciation for women’s contribution in this field.
With a growing emphasis on diversity and inclusivity, opportunities are expanding for women to break through traditional gender barriers and excel as leaders and entrepreneurs. While the industry in Thailand is becoming more inclusive, there are still challenges that female leaders may face. Some of these challenges include cultural biases and societal expectations that may hinder women from advancing to leadership positions.
Breaking Barriers as a Female Industry Leader
Sinchawla strives to be a role model for other women in the organization and beyond. She openly shares her own experiences, successes, and challenges, and motivates others to adopt their potential, take risks and pursue their aspirations. Overall, she aims to create an inclusive, gender-diverse culture that recognizes and appreciates the value and potential of women, while actively promoting their equal opportunities for growth and development within the Gemstone industry.
To balance the daily business of the company and the work of ICA, Sinchawla prioritizes and delegates responsibilities effectively to ensure that the day-to-day operations of the company are running smoothly while also dedicating enough time and resources to the work of ICA. This involves setting clear goals and objectives for both areas and regularly assessing progress towards these goals. It is also important for her to stay informed of the latest developments in both the industry and the field of ICA to make informed decisions and allocate resources effectively.
