TGJTA Delegation Visits Private Jade Museum of Renowned Collector Mr. Xiao Yongfu in Kunming, Yunnan
Mr. Chomphol Phornchindarak, President of the Thai Gem and Jewelry Traders Association (TGJTA), along with Ms. Wilasinee Noknuam, Secretary-General of the Association, Asst. Prof. Dr. Khajornpreeyah Wongpreedee, Dean of the College of Creative Industry, Srinakharinwirot University, and Ms. Kewalin Numrit, Grand Prize Winner of the China & Thailand Jewelry Design Creations Competition, had the honor of visiting the private jade museum of Mr. Xiao Yongfu in Kunming, Yunnan Province, People’s Republic of China.
Mr. Xiao Yongfu, widely recognized as the “Father of Eastern Gemstones,” is a legendary figure in the field of gemology—highly respected for his lifelong contributions to gemstone research, authentication, valuation, and collection, particularly in jade. He is the former Director of the Yunnan Geological Museum, former Secretary-General and Vice President of the Yunnan Gem Association, and a prominent educator in the field of gemology.
During the visit, the TGJTA delegation engaged in an insightful exchange of jade-related knowledge with Mr. Xiao, while also viewing rare jade pieces from his esteemed private collection, sourced from various regions across China and neighboring countries.
Kunming, the capital of Yunnan, plays a pivotal role as a major hub in the jade trade route from Myanmar to China. It is also a key marketplace for other colored gemstones and ornamental stones such as amber, turquoise, lapis lazuli, and natural stones from different provinces across China and throughout Southeast Asia.
This visit not only deepened cross-cultural understanding in the field of gemstones but also marked another meaningful step in TGJTA’s mission to foster international collaboration and preserve the rich heritage of gems and jewelry.
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