New Marketing Director Appointed at GE Gem Technologies

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
September 12, 2000

New Marketing Director Appointed at GE Gem Technologies

   New York, N.Y. - General Electric Company (NYSE: GE) today announced the appointment of Michelle Kalina as Marketing Director, GE Gem Technologies, reporting to Tanya Fratto, President and CEO, GE Gem Technologies. Kalina is responsible for providing the marketing and sales leadership for GEs new gem product lines.

" Michelle brings the knowledge and experience of the luxury goods market that this new business needs, " said Fratto. "She offers exceptional insight into the diamond industry as well as expertise in assessing consumer trends. Michelle makes a great addition to GEs executive team."
Kalina has held Sales and Marketing positions with Neiman Marcus Group, Michel Dawkins, Inc. Escada (USA) Retail, Inc. and, most recently, was instrumental in the launch of the extremely successful VIVID COLLECTION by Shaer & Spector. "There is a tremendous opportunity to align GEs business with leading companies across the diamond and jewelry industry," said Kalina. "With GEs history of producing superior products, and the support of their affiliates in the trade, GE will be capable of delivering the exceptional merchandise consumers expect."
.

About GE Gem Technologies
Created in 1999, GE Gem Technologies is a business that utilizes GEs technological expertise to enhance the timeless quality and beauty of natural diamonds.
The first product, BELLATAIRE TM Diamonds, was launched at the Jewelers of America
trade show in July. These diamonds are extremely rare, ultra-pure, natural diamonds that have been restored to their intrinsic color by a proprietary process developed by General Electric Company. BELLATAIRE diamonds are of exceptional quality, no lower in color than H", no lower in clarity than VS2" and cut to the most demanding standards in the diamond industry.

Each BELLATAIRE Diamond is laser inscribed with individual identification and comes with GIA certification and a lifetime guarantee from GE.

GE plans on continuing its extensive research into the nature of the gems and providing consumers diamonds of peerless quality and unparalleled beauty.
                  # # # #
For more information, contact:
Terry Kane (614) 438-2851 (Office)