Conclave 2026

For many in the gem trade, luminescence is nothing more than the observation of the glow that gemstones exhibit under a UV lamp used in gemology, with limited use such as the distinction of natural and synthetic spinel. But fluorescence is a property of much more importance used in a wide array of applications. In the past three decades a large variety of luminescence-based gem-testing methods have been developed, from imaging to spectroscopy using all sorts of excitation sources. Today, luminescence-based testing is extensively used for diamond testing but also for a wide range of other gem species such as corundum, spinel, beryl and many others. This presentation offers an insight into the world of gemstone luminescence, with amazing images, surprising science, and convincing results.

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.

While jewelers are trained in karat, color, and metalworking techniques, many would appreciate and benefit from a more in-depth understanding of metallurgical principles and the properties specific to the precious metals they work with and sell every day. Knowing the underlying concepts will illuminate issues that are common at the bench, at the sales counter, and in the customer’s long-term satisfaction.

This presentation explores precious metals metallurgy, the mechanical properties of various jewelry alloys, the impact of casting techniques on quality, and the anatomy of common casting defects. Additional highlights will include the metallurgical impact of various bench techniques and tips for using your new technical knowledge at the sales counter.

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.