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Wednesday, September 16
 

10:15am EDT

Build Your Diamond Story: A Workshop for Modern Retailers
Wednesday September 16, 2026 10:15am - 11:15am EDT
In today’s retail environment, selling diamonds isn’t just about product—it’s about story. But how do you craft a message that resonates with modern consumers and reflects the true impact of natural diamonds?

In this hands-on workshop, Diamonds Do Good guides attendees through building their own customized diamond story—one that can be used in-store, online, and across marketing channels. Using a simple, repeatable framework, participants will learn how to connect origin, impact, and emotion into a clear and compelling narrative.

This working session is designed to be practical and immediately applicable. Attendees will leave not only inspired, but equipped with messaging they can use the very next day—whether speaking to a client, training their team, or creating content for their brand.
Speakers
avatar for Madison Harvey

Madison Harvey

Associate Programs Director, Diamonds Do Good
Madison Harvey is a creator and storyteller with a passion for natural diamonds.  With a background in Journalism from Auburn University, Madison loves to share the positive impact that natural diamonds have all over the world.  Since joining the Diamonds Do Good team in 2020, Madison... Read More →
avatar for Constance Polamalu

Constance Polamalu

COO | Designer | Owner, Zachary’s Jewelers | Birthright Foundry | Bloomstone Jewelers
Passionate about all things: jewelry, retail, and tequila. Let's skip the small talk and jump into the diamond dream or what it's like to really raise children in the industry. ;) Constance

For Facts Sake:
Constance Polamalu is an American Samoan first-generation jeweler who serves as Chief Operating Officer at award-winning, multi-brand independent retailer Zachary’s Jewelers in Annapolis, Maryland. With almost 15 years of experience in fine jewelry through retail sales, mass-market... Read More →
Wednesday September 16, 2026 10:15am - 11:15am EDT
Augusta A

10:15am EDT

Building the Future – Platinum Education & the Next Generation of Jewelers
Wednesday September 16, 2026 10:15am - 11:15am EDT
As the jewelry industry evolves, so too must the way we educate and inspire the next generation of bench jewelers and designers. This forward-looking session explores the current state of bench jeweler education in general (with a special focus on the often overlooked, but increasingly important need for platinum bench jeweler education), why it matters, and how leading institutions and industry partners are shaping the future. (Panelists representing jewelry schools/academic institutions/industry organizations)
Key Discussion Points:
• The importance of platinum-specific training in today’s market
• Gaps in current education and how to address them
• Real-world examples of industry-education collaboration
• How mentorship and hands-on experience shape career readiness
Speakers
avatar for Kevin Reilly

Kevin Reilly

Senior Vice President, Platinum Guild International USA
Kevin Reilly is a jewelry industry veteran with over 30 years of experience in brand building, marketing, sales & customer relationship management.  In his role at Platinum Guild International USA, he is responsible for developing strategic partnerships with companies at all levels... Read More →
Wednesday September 16, 2026 10:15am - 11:15am EDT
Congressional A

10:15am EDT

Frontiers in Colored Stone Origin Research: Jade, Opal, Demantoid, and Peridot
Wednesday September 16, 2026 10:15am - 11:15am EDT
Geographic origin and traceability are at the front of everyone's mind in the gem and jewelry industry. Everyone would love to know where all of their gemstones were sourced and by whom. Unfortunately, it takes a huge amount of research to develop new origin services, and so most gem labs limit origin determination to a small number of important stones. Over the last 10 years, GIA has been scientifically investigating several new materials, and over the last year, has launched 4 new origin services for jade, opal, demantoid, and peridot. This lecture will lay out the scientific basis for geographic origin determination and discuss the research that goes into developing a new origin service.
Speakers
avatar for Aaron Palke, Ph.D.

Aaron Palke, Ph.D.

Sr. Manager, Colored Stone Research, GIA
Dr. Aaron Palke developed an interest in minerals and gemstones searching for agates and other minerals in eastern Montana. Dr. Palke pursued a formal education in geology, obtaining a Bachelor of Science degree from The University of Tulsa and a Ph.D. from Stanford University. He... Read More →
Wednesday September 16, 2026 10:15am - 11:15am EDT
Royal Melbourne A

10:15am EDT

Legal & Compliance Essentials for Today’s Jewelry Professionals
Wednesday September 16, 2026 10:15am - 11:15am EDT
Global trade policy is shifting rapidly — and jewelry businesses are feeling the impact. From new tariff proposals and customs enforcement priorities forcing businesses to seriously evaluate sourcing strategies, today’s market requires companies to stay informed and adaptable. The jewelry industry continues to evolve, as do the legal, regulatory, and consumer protection issues impacting businesses every day. Join the Jewelers Vigilance Committee (JVC) for an informative and practical session covering the most important compliance topics facing jewelry professionals today. This presentation will explore key areas including tariffs, advertising and marketing claims, social media and influencer compliance, product disclosures, responsible sourcing considerations, and emerging legal trends affecting the industry. JVC experts will also share real-world examples and best practices to help businesses reduce risk while building consumer trust and confidence. Designed for professionals across all sectors of the jewelry industry, this session offers valuable takeaways to help attendees strengthen compliance practices and stay ahead in a rapidly changing marketplace.
Speakers
avatar for Sara Yood, Esq.

Sara Yood, Esq.

CEO, JVC
Sara Yood, Senior Counsel at the Jewelers Vigilance Committee (JVC), is an attorney admitted in the state of New York with extensive experience in intellectual property law. Sara’s responsibilities at JVC include anti-money laundering compliance, FTC Jewelry Guides compliance, trademark... Read More →
Wednesday September 16, 2026 10:15am - 11:15am EDT
Augusta B

10:15am EDT

The Anti-AI Playbook: Scaling With AI Without Losing Your Brand or Designs
Wednesday September 16, 2026 10:15am - 11:15am EDT
AI is everywhere, but for jewelry, most of it falls short. Generic tools produce unmanufacturable designs, dilute brand identity, and put your proprietary IP at risk.

In this forward-thinking session, Madeline Fraser, an expert at the intersection of art, software, and AI—shares how to actually use AI the right way in jewelry.

You’ll walk away understanding how to:
  • Leverage AI to scale design, sales, and operations
  • Protect your proprietary designs and brand integrity
  • Ensure outputs are manufacturable and aligned with your standards
  • Avoid the common pitfalls that make most AI unusable in this space

This is not hype. It’s a practical framework for using AI as a competitive advantage, without compromising what makes your brand & jewelry designs valuable.
Speakers
avatar for Madeline Fraser

Madeline Fraser

Founder & CEO, Gemist
I’m the Founder & CEO of Gemist, an AI and SaaS platform transforming the jewelry industry through customization, visualization, and immersive digital experiences. As a three-time entrepreneur, I’ve always been passionate about building companies that merge creativity, technology... Read More →
Wednesday September 16, 2026 10:15am - 11:15am EDT
Colonial A

11:45am EDT

AWCI Mobile Classroom: Workshop: Quartz Testers: How and Why
Wednesday September 16, 2026 11:45am - 12:45pm EDT
This class will utilize modern Witschi quartz timing equipment to analyze quartz watch movements. The course will give a general overview of the timing equipment, allowing for questions and answers as well as an opportunity to use the equipment. Part of this course will be hands-on with movements and equipment being provided for use.
Speakers
avatar for Jason Champion

Jason Champion

Education Director, AWCI
Jason Champion is a Certified Watchmaker 21 and the education director for the American Watchmakers-Clockmakers Institute (AWCI) where he aids in curriculum development, teaches classes, and oversees AWCI’s world-renowned certification, traveling education, and the Archie Perkins... Read More →
Wednesday September 16, 2026 11:45am - 12:45pm EDT
Walkway to Oscola

11:45am EDT

Future Legends
Wednesday September 16, 2026 11:45am - 12:45pm EDT
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Panelists
avatar for Aaron Palke, Ph.D.

Aaron Palke, Ph.D.

Sr. Manager, Colored Stone Research, GIA
Dr. Aaron Palke developed an interest in minerals and gemstones searching for agates and other minerals in eastern Montana. Dr. Palke pursued a formal education in geology, obtaining a Bachelor of Science degree from The University of Tulsa and a Ph.D. from Stanford University. He... Read More →
avatar for Christopher “Mike” Breeding, Ph.D.

Christopher “Mike” Breeding, Ph.D.

Senior Manager, Analytics, GIA
Dr. Christopher “Mike” Breeding is a senior manager of diamond analytical testing at the Gemological Institute of America in Carlsbad, California. He obtained a B.S. in geology from the College of William and Mary in Virginia, a Ph.D. in geology from Yale in 2004, and is a GIA... Read More →
avatar for Evan Smith, Ph.D.

Evan Smith, Ph.D.

Senior Research Scientist, GIA
Evan M. Smith is a Senior Research Scientist at the Gemological Institute of America. His work focuses on the geology of diamonds, including those originating from depths greater than 300 km, which help constrain models of deep Earth composition and processes. This research has contributed... Read More →
avatar for Nathan Renfro

Nathan Renfro

Sr. Manager, Identification, GIA
Nathan Renfro, a native of western North Carolina, developed an interest in minerals during his late teens, which was sparked by his grandfather’s rock collection. In 2006 he completed his undergraduate studies in geology and then went on to enroll at GIA for the resident Graduate... Read More →
avatar for Nicole Ahline

Nicole Ahline

Sr. Manager, Colored Stone Research, GIA
Nicole Ahline, originally from Chicago, Illinois, completed her undergraduate studies in geology at Cornell College in 2015. In 2016 Miss Ahline enrolled at GIA for the Graduate Gemologist (GG) program earning her GG credentials in that same year. Miss Ahline has also completed the... Read More →
Wednesday September 16, 2026 11:45am - 12:45pm EDT
Congressional A

11:45am EDT

Natural Carat Crushers
Wednesday September 16, 2026 11:45am - 12:45pm EDT
What separates average retailers from absolute powerhouses? Natural Carat Crushers reveals the three distinct niche business practices that enable these dynamite stores to dominate the natural diamond market. These aren’t generic sales tips—they’re specialized strategies that consistently drive massive natural diamond movement and produce unparalleled closing ratios. In this high-impact session, we break down how top-performing retailers position natural diamonds for maximum emotional connection, engineer in-store experiences that accelerate buying decisions, and implement precision inventory and pricing tactics that keep stones turning at remarkable speed. The result? Higher average tickets, stronger margins, and clients who say “yes” faster and more often. Total natural diamond domination!
Speakers
Wednesday September 16, 2026 11:45am - 12:45pm EDT
Congressional B

11:45am EDT

The New AGS Appraisal and Report Standards
Wednesday September 16, 2026 11:45am - 12:45pm EDT
Appraisal Standards Subcommittee Chair Joel Hassler, ACGA, will go over some of the highlights and details of the new Appraisal and Report Standards passed by the AGS International Board of Directors earlier this year.
Speakers
avatar for Joel Hassler, ACGA

Joel Hassler, ACGA

Owner, Von Hasle Jewelers
Joel started in the industry in 2000, earning his CGA in 2003. In 2018, Joel was chosen as one of the two new CGA Instructors to take over for Cos Altobelli, ECGA. Joel has been a presenter on appraisal and store operations topics at AGS Conclave since 2018. He is a past AGS Board... Read More →
Wednesday September 16, 2026 11:45am - 12:45pm EDT
Olympic A

3:00pm EDT

Agentic AI: When Your Digital Assistant Starts Running the Store
Wednesday September 16, 2026 3:00pm - 4:00pm EDT
Most jewelers who've experimented with AI know the basics—using ChatGPT to write a caption, generate a product description, or ask a question. That's AI as a tool. What very few people in this industry understand is AI as an agent.

Agentic AI doesn't wait to be asked. It monitors, decides, and acts. It can watch your website for low-converting pages and flag them. It can monitor your review platforms and draft responses. It can check your inventory against your marketing calendar and alert you to mismatches. It can follow up with appointment inquiries automatically. It can run your email sequences without you scheduling them.

This session introduces agentic AI in plain language—what it is, how it works, and which tools and use cases are most valuable for jewelry retailers right now.
Speakers
avatar for Ross Cockerham

Ross Cockerham

CEO & Co-Founder, Punchmark
Ross Cockerham is the CEO & Co-Founder of Punchmark, and has been involved in the jewelry industry for over 25 years, helping retailers learn to run their stores more effectively and grow their businesses. In Punchmark's early days, Ross was responsible for engineering Punchmark's... Read More →
Wednesday September 16, 2026 3:00pm - 4:00pm EDT
Colonial A

3:00pm EDT

From Custom Chaos to Scalable Revenue: Fixing the Custom Jewelry Sales Process
Wednesday September 16, 2026 3:00pm - 4:00pm EDT
Custom jewelry represents over 70% of fine jewelry sales, yet up to 40% of those sales are lost in the process. Why? Because the experience is still too manual, too slow, and doesn’t meet modern customer expectations.

In this session, Madeline Fraser shares how to transform your custom sales process into a high-converting, revenue-generating machine, without losing the personal, high-touch experience your brand is known for.

You’ll learn how to:
  • Eliminate friction and drop-off in your custom pipeline
  • Increase average order value and close rates
  • Automate key steps while preserving your brand voice and client relationships
  • Seamlessly tie online & in-store

This is a tactical, step-by-step guide to making more money, saving time, and delivering a better customer experience—at scale.
Speakers
avatar for Madeline Fraser

Madeline Fraser

Founder & CEO, Gemist
I’m the Founder & CEO of Gemist, an AI and SaaS platform transforming the jewelry industry through customization, visualization, and immersive digital experiences. As a three-time entrepreneur, I’ve always been passionate about building companies that merge creativity, technology... Read More →
Wednesday September 16, 2026 3:00pm - 4:00pm EDT
Augusta A

3:00pm EDT

SMS Marketing: The What, Why, & How for Jewelers
Wednesday September 16, 2026 3:00pm - 4:00pm EDT
With an open rate of 90%, SMS marketing is one of the best ways to build customer relationships, boost foot traffic, and close more sales. During this session, our jewelry industry experts will walk you through everything you need to know about SMS marketing — including how to set up your system, comply with opt-in regulations, craft compelling messages, and drive real revenue. Don’t miss out on learning about this critical jewelry store marketing channel!
Speakers
NG

Nick Gurney

General Manager, Jewel360
RT

Rhett Tingey

Marketing Automation Manager, Jewel360
Wednesday September 16, 2026 3:00pm - 4:00pm EDT
Augusta B

3:00pm EDT

The Impact of Fluorescence on Diamond Appearance
Wednesday September 16, 2026 3:00pm - 4:00pm EDT
Fluorescence remains one of the most discussed – and often misunderstood – properties in diamond grading. While strong market opinions persist, the scientific and visual realities are more nuanced. In this 45-minute presentation, Dr. Mike Breeding examines fluorescence through three lenses: history, research, and observable appearance. Drawing on recent advances in imaging and measurement technology, a GIA research team has quantitatively characterized the relationship between blue fluorescence intensity and its effects on table-down color, face-up color, brightness, and transparency under controlled illumination. The session will also address the distinction between fluorescence-related contrast effects and transparency reduction caused by structural light scattering. By separating perception from measurable optical behavior, this research aims to reduce long-standing confusion and provide a scientific foundation for informed discussion of diamond fluorescence.
Speakers
avatar for Christopher “Mike” Breeding, Ph.D.

Christopher “Mike” Breeding, Ph.D.

Senior Manager, Analytics, GIA
Dr. Christopher “Mike” Breeding is a senior manager of diamond analytical testing at the Gemological Institute of America in Carlsbad, California. He obtained a B.S. in geology from the College of William and Mary in Virginia, a Ph.D. in geology from Yale in 2004, and is a GIA... Read More →
Wednesday September 16, 2026 3:00pm - 4:00pm EDT
Royal Melbourne A

4:30pm EDT

A Discussion of the Status of the Global (and US) Watch Industry
Wednesday September 16, 2026 4:30pm - 5:30pm EDT
The watch industry is always shifting—from changing consumer habits to evolving dynamics in both the new and pre-owned markets. In this panel, we’ll take a step back and look at where the watch industry stands today, both in the U.S. and globally. We’ll talk trends, challenges, and opportunities that are shaping the future of watch retail, service, and collecting. This conversation will help you better understand the forces at play—and how to navigate them in your own business. Bring your questions—this one’s meant to be interactive.
Speakers
avatar for Justin Shiver, RJ

Justin Shiver, RJ

Watchmaker, Underwood Jewelers
Justin Shiver has over a quarter of a century of experience as a watchmaker and workshop manager in a retail jewelry store. Justin’s expertise extends beyond the workshop. He is a current member of the American Watchmakers-Clockmakers Institute (AWCI) Board of Directors. As a member... Read More →
avatar for Jason Champion

Jason Champion

Education Director, AWCI
Jason Champion is a Certified Watchmaker 21 and the education director for the American Watchmakers-Clockmakers Institute (AWCI) where he aids in curriculum development, teaches classes, and oversees AWCI’s world-renowned certification, traveling education, and the Archie Perkins... Read More →
JZ

Jason Ziegenbein

Lead Watch Educator, AWCI
Wednesday September 16, 2026 4:30pm - 5:30pm EDT
Congressional B

4:30pm EDT

Designing Jewelry for Casting Success – From Concept to CAD to Efficient Finishing
Wednesday September 16, 2026 4:30pm - 5:30pm EDT
Computer Aided Design or “CAD” offers infinite design possibilities and invites infinitely small detail, but we can’t lose sight of the laws of physics and material science! A design looks great blown up on the screen, but how will that detail translate to metal?

This session will provide clear guidelines for casting success as we discuss best practices for: minimum wall thickness, casting holes, dimensional tolerances, shrink rates, feature radius, differences in metal flow by alloy, hallmarks, finishing access, and the dreaded “Zoom of Doom” that could mislead anyone into thinking you can cast 0.01mm features.
Speakers
avatar for Joel Meltzer

Joel Meltzer

Director of Manufacturing, TechForm Advanced Casting Technology, LLC
Joel Meltzer is the Director of Manufacturing at TechForm Advanced Casting Technology. Joel studied art in many different forms, from large-scale sculpture to printmaking, but fell in love with jewelry making while living in Tucson, Arizona. He received his BFA with a concentration... Read More →
avatar for Silas Morgan

Silas Morgan

Director of Business Development, TechForm Advanced Casting Technology, LLC
Wednesday September 16, 2026 4:30pm - 5:30pm EDT
Olympic A

4:30pm EDT

Jewelry Interior Design is Rising to the Challenge of Current Customer Demands
Wednesday September 16, 2026 4:30pm - 5:30pm EDT
Whether owners are building out a new interior or updating an existing one, a primary function of jewelry store design is to convey your brand image and optimize the customer experience. As an owner the design must be attractive, engaging and on-brand, while meeting the expectations of today's customers. The pandemic accelerated the transition from in-person to online shopping, and many consumers say they will continue making online purchases because of the selection and convenience digital channels now offer—far more than just a few years ago. But not everyone wants to buy jewelry by clicking a link.
Speakers
avatar for Leslie McGwire

Leslie McGwire

President, Leslie McGwire & Associates: Jewelry Store Interior Design Company
Leslie McGwire™ ASID Allied has over 35 years in the business development, commercial interior design, equipment, furniture sales, and marketing services for jewelry stores and retail businesses. 
Leslie McGwire, A.S.I.D. Allied (American Society of Interior Designers) is a premier & award winning designer and has won over 25 national design awards, including the Salon Today and INSTORE Awards. Some notable locations for which she has designed include: The Mirage, Wynn Hotel... Read More →
Wednesday September 16, 2026 4:30pm - 5:30pm EDT
Colonial B

4:30pm EDT

Organized Retail Crime in 2026: Evolving Threats and Practical Strategies for Luxury Retail
Wednesday September 16, 2026 4:30pm - 5:30pm EDT
Join Howard Stone, VP of Asset Protection & Claims at Jewelers Mutual, and Scott Guginsky, EVP of the Jewelers' Security Alliance, for a timely discussion on how organized retail crime continues to evolve—and what luxury retailers must do in 2026 to stay ahead.

As criminal networks become more coordinated, mobile, and tech‑enabled, understanding current trends is critical to protecting your business. This session will explore emerging organized crime tactics impacting luxury and jewelry retailers, practical prevention strategies, and proven approaches to safeguarding your people, inventory, and customers.
Speakers
avatar for Howard Stone

Howard Stone

Vice President Global Asset Protection & Claims, Jewelers Mutual
Howard joined Jewelers Mutual in January 2024 with over 30 years of progressive Loss Prevention experience. He has held leadership roles at Macy's, Old Navy, Anchor Blue Stores and The Wet Seal. Most recently, Howard was the Director, Loss Prevention & Operations at Amazon in Seattle... Read More →
SG

Scott Guginsky

Executive Vice President , Jewelers’ Security Alliance (JSA)
Wednesday September 16, 2026 4:30pm - 5:30pm EDT
Colonial A

4:30pm EDT

Seamless Selling: Where Brands Meet Retail
Wednesday September 16, 2026 4:30pm - 5:30pm EDT
Today’s jewelry customer expects more than a transaction—they want a story, an experience, and a connection to the piece they’re buying. Delivering that kind of experience requires deeper collaboration between wholesalers and retailers than ever before.

This panel explores how successful partnerships between jewelry brands and retail partners create a seamless journey for consumers—from discovery on social media to education in-store to long-term loyalty. Panelists will discuss how collaboration in areas such as storytelling, marketing, merchandising, product development, and events helps elevate both brands and retailers while strengthening the customer relationship.

Attendees will leave with practical strategies for building stronger partnerships, aligning brand and store identities, and elevating the customer experience.
Speakers
SM

Stephanie Major

Marketing Director, Parlé
Wednesday September 16, 2026 4:30pm - 5:30pm EDT
Congressional A

4:30pm EDT

The Fridge, the Palace, and the Diamond Machine: The Story Behind the Creation of Synthetic Diamonds
Wednesday September 16, 2026 4:30pm - 5:30pm EDT
In this presentation, Elizabeth will take us back to the beginning to explore what truly accelerated the production of the first synthetic diamond material, revealing some of the lesser-known stories that underpin its often-colorful history and approaching the subject from a very different perspective. By building up context and reexamining diamond synthesis through the lens of time, this will open up the thinking around the subject and help us recognize that it is the story that sits behind both the natural diamond and the synthetic material that truly sets one apart from one another, both in meaning and purpose.
Speakers
EW

Elizabeth West

Senior Technical Educator, De Beers Group
Wednesday September 16, 2026 4:30pm - 5:30pm EDT
Augusta A

4:30pm EDT

Turning Maybe Into a Same-Day Yes
Wednesday September 16, 2026 4:30pm - 5:30pm EDT
David Berdugo spent a decade scaling Blue Nile and James Allen — then stepped back, worked inside independent jewelry stores, and interviewed hundreds of jewelers across the country. This session is built on what sits at the intersection of both worlds. Winning the custom engagement sale happens in three places: online, before the customer ever walks in; at the counter, where hesitation is the enemy; and behind the scenes, where your operation either keeps your promises or quietly breaks them. Attendees will leave with immediately actionable frameworks for all three—turning more maybes into a same-day yes.
Speakers
DB

David Berdugo

CEO, Caratwise
Wednesday September 16, 2026 4:30pm - 5:30pm EDT
Augusta B
 
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