Adding to the recent buzz about Brazilian fashion and design, the Gemological Institute of America has put together a new exhibit called “Soul of Brazil,” its first international effort, to highlight both traditional and modern Brazilian jewelry designs.

In recent years, Brazil has been distancing itself from its reputation as simply a gemstone producer, as several designers and global brands, including H. Stern, showed the world the fashion-savvy nature of Brazilian jewelry.

Patricia Syvrud, GIA director of in-kind gifts and a former resident of Brazil, built the exhibit in conjunction with IBGM, the Brazilian Institute of Gems and Precious Metals. Among the companies that supplied pieces are Antonio Bernardo, FR Hueb, H. Stern, Manoel Bernardes, and Ruth Grieco.

The GIA Museum debuted “Soul of Brazil” at the AGTA GemFair in Tucson and will display it in the AGTA Pavilion at The JCK Show ~ Las Vegas in June.