The Thai gem and jewellery industry employs up to 900,000 people including many women in the formal sector and many more in the informal sector. This contrasts with the limited participation of women in the gem industry in India and Sri Lanka. There is little research into the role of women in the operation of the industry.

This research used entrepreneurship ecosystem theory to understand the Thai institutions that support and hinder women in the Thai industry. Interviews were conducted across Bangkok and Chanthaburi and detailed life histories were recorded of women owned businesses in the Jewellery Trade Centre.

Thai women are influential in the industry and there are positive workplaces where women can play an important role. Universities and government institutions are key enablers but there is still gendered division of labour with women earning less than men in some sectors. Cultural norms also prevent them from achieving their full potential. Some women are working informally in very poor conditions.

As Thailand seeks to become the global gem and jewellery industry leader, it needs to foster an entrepreneurial ecosystem that develops a new generation of gemstone entrepreneurs, especially its women and youth.