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Monday, September 14
 

8:00am EDT

Registration Open
Monday September 14, 2026 8:00am - 6:00pm EDT
Rotunda
Conclave is open for business! Come to the Conclave Registration Desk to pick up your event essentials.
Monday September 14, 2026 8:00am - 6:00pm EDT
Rotunda
  Registration

8:30am EDT

Shuttle to Epcot Theme Park
Monday September 14, 2026 8:30am - 3:00pm EDT
Porte Cochere/Valet
Spend the day at EPCOT with round-trip shuttle service from the Omni Orlando Resort at ChampionsGate. Explore the park on your own schedule—the World Showcase pavilions, attractions, dining, and entertainment. Cost: $85 per person, round trip. Included: shuttle transportation; morning departure from Omni at 8:30 a.m. or 9:30 a.m.; afternoon return from EPCOT at 1:30 p.m. or 3:00 p.m.;...
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Monday September 14, 2026 8:30am - 3:00pm EDT
Porte Cochere/Valet
  Networking Event

8:30am EDT

Shuttle to Magic Kingdom Theme Park
Monday September 14, 2026 8:30am - 4:00pm EDT
Porte Cochere/Valet
Make the most of your Conclave experience without having to drive! This optional excursion covers round-trip shuttle transportation from the Omni Orlando Resort at ChampionsGate to the happiest place on Earth, the Magic Kingdom Theme Park at Walt Disney World Resort. Enjoy the freedom to explore the park at your own pace—from amusement rides, dining, and entertainment to all the magic Disney has...
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Monday September 14, 2026 8:30am - 4:00pm EDT
Porte Cochere/Valet
  Networking Event

12:30pm EDT

Wild Florida Airboat Adventure (Pre-reserved Excursion)
Monday September 14, 2026 12:30pm - 5:00pm EDT
Porte Cochere/Valet
Discover the natural beauty of Florida with a privately curated Wild Florida adventure. This immersive excursion includes a 60-minute narrated private airboat ride on Cypress Lake, offering an up-close look at Florida’s wetlands and wildlife, followed by time to explore the Wildlife Park. Guests will also enjoy a gator demonstration with a takeaway photo, deluxe round-trip transportation, park...
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Monday September 14, 2026 12:30pm - 5:00pm EDT
Porte Cochere/Valet
  Networking Event

4:30pm EDT

New Member Reception
Monday September 14, 2026 4:30pm - 5:00pm EDT
Eagles Edge
New to AGS? Start Conclave here. Join us for the New Member Reception—a relaxed, welcoming event designed to help you meet other new members, connect with the AGS International Board of Directors, and get to know the AGS team. It’s an easy, enjoyable way to jump into Conclave and start building your community right away. After the reception, keep the connections going at the Mentor Mixer and...
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Monday September 14, 2026 4:30pm - 5:00pm EDT
Eagles Edge
  Networking Event

5:00pm EDT

Mentor Mixer
Monday September 14, 2026 5:00pm - 6:00pm EDT
Eagles Edge
Kickstart your Conclave 2026 experience by joining us at the annual Mentor Mixer. It’s the perfect occasion to socialize with old friends, connect with fellow industry professionals, and bond with new friends! You’ll also gain valuable insights into the AGS Mentoring Program and learn how you can participate as either a mentor or a mentee. Join us! There will be appetizers, a hosted bar, and...
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Monday September 14, 2026 5:00pm - 6:00pm EDT
Eagles Edge
  Networking Event

6:00pm EDT

AGS Guilds Party
Monday September 14, 2026 6:00pm - 8:00pm EDT
Eagles Edge
The fun doesn’t stop after the Mentor Mixer. Keep it going at the annual Guilds Party with the “Guildies!" Guilds are regional member groups that connect throughout the year in local communities. The meetings feature subject-matter experts on career-relevant topics and are an easy, engaging way to meet other jewelry professionals nearby. At the party, you’ll learn how getting involved can...
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Monday September 14, 2026 6:00pm - 8:00pm EDT
Eagles Edge
  Networking Event
 
Tuesday, September 15
 

6:30am EDT

JFC Rings of Strength Charity 5K
Tuesday September 15, 2026 6:30am - 8:00am EDT
Porte Cochere/Valet
Start Conclave 2026 the best way we know how: supporting JFC. Join Jewelers for Children (JFC) for the Conclave edition of JFC’s Rings of Strength 5K. Rings of Strength has helped raise more than $420,000 for JFC, and in 2026, JFC will host its premier event in two cities — including Orlando at Conclave. Each event features a 5K route that you can walk, jog, or run—whatever you desire! Start...
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Tuesday September 15, 2026 6:30am - 8:00am EDT
Porte Cochere/Valet
  Networking Event

7:00am EDT

Registration Open
Tuesday September 15, 2026 7:00am - 6:00pm EDT
Rotunda
Registration is open. Come to the Conclave Registration Desk to pick up your event essentials.
Tuesday September 15, 2026 7:00am - 6:00pm EDT
Rotunda
  Registration

8:30am EDT

Wells Fargo Fast Track
Tuesday September 15, 2026 8:30am - 11:30am EDT
International 1
Registration is available on a first-come, first-served basis to Retail Firm members only. Maximum registration of 200 attendees. Firms that attend the full program will receive $1,200 per firm in travel reimbursement.*Spend the morning with your Wells Fargo Consumer Financing Team and rock your financing program! This engaging two-hour program kicks off with breakfast, then heads into micro...
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Tuesday September 15, 2026 8:30am - 11:30am EDT
International 1
  Track, Business Management

9:00am EDT

A Visit to the Mines of Tajikistan: A Designer's Perspective
Tuesday September 15, 2026 9:00am - 10:00am EDT
Olympic A
High in the Pamir Mountains of southern Tajikistan lie some of the world’s most storied sources of spinel and ruby. For centuries these remote deposits produced gems that traveled along the Silk Road and ultimately adorned royal treasuries and museum collections. Today, new production is limited, but the landscapes and histories remain extraordinary. This talk shares a visual journey to the...
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Speakers
LR

Laurie Reid

Owner, Designer, LFR Studios Fine Jewelry
Tuesday September 15, 2026 9:00am - 10:00am EDT
Olympic A
  Track, Gems Jewelry and Watches

9:00am EDT

AI Yourself Calm: Smarter Systems for the Business Behind Your Craft
Tuesday September 15, 2026 9:00am - 10:00am EDT
Colonial B
Most jewelry businesses already have systems. The question is no longer whether to build them, but how to elevate everyone working inside them. AI absorbs the execution layer beneath your team and your craft, so every person, regardless of role, can work faster, think bigger, and produce at a level previously out of reach. The better you and your team become at directing AI, the better your...
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Speakers
avatar for Mariel Diaz

Mariel Diaz

Founder & Strategic Originator, Accounting for Jewelers
Mariel Diaz founded Accounting for Jewelers in 2013 to provide accounting services to jewelry businesses in the US. Mariel oversees operations and is a trusted advisor to jewelry business owners. She is a 2nd generation jeweler and was previously a GIA Graduate Gemologist, JA Certified... Read More →
Tuesday September 15, 2026 9:00am - 10:00am EDT
Colonial B
  Track, Business Management

9:00am EDT

AWCI Mobile Classroom: Workshop: Screw Driver & Tweezer Maintenance
Tuesday September 15, 2026 9:00am - 10:00am EDT
Walkway to Oscola
This class teaches proper screwdriver and tweezer maintenance including how to select and use sharpening tools. Learn about torque screwdrivers and new materials for screwdriver blades and tweezers. This is a hands-on workshop and tooling will be provided.
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 →
Tuesday September 15, 2026 9:00am - 10:00am EDT
Walkway to Oscola
  Track, AWCI Hands-On

9:00am EDT

Diamond Minds: Who Shaped Our Understanding of Diamond?
Tuesday September 15, 2026 9:00am - 10:00am EDT
Olympic B
How do we know a diamond is a crystalline form of pure carbon? How can we say they formed up to 3.5 billion years ago, at great depths within the Earth? We hear a lot of facts, accept a lot of information… but what – indeed, who – led us to these revelations? In this presentation, Elizabeth will bring to life the key discoveries that shaped our understanding of diamonds through the stories...
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Speakers
EW

Elizabeth West

Senior Technical Educator, De Beers Group
Tuesday September 15, 2026 9:00am - 10:00am EDT
Olympic B
  Track, Sales and Marketing

9:00am EDT

Frontiers in Colored Stone Origin Research: Jade, Opal, Demantoid, and Peridot
Tuesday September 15, 2026 9:00am - 10:00am EDT
Royal Melbourne A
This GIA session will be repeated.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...
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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 →
Tuesday September 15, 2026 9:00am - 10:00am EDT
Royal Melbourne A
  Track, GIA Lecture

9:00am EDT

Future-Proofing Your Jewelry Business: Lessons from the 20 Under 40
Tuesday September 15, 2026 9:00am - 10:00am EDT
Congressional A
Jewelers are at an inflection point as they deal with major challenges—and opportunities—facing the industry. Without fresh ideas to navigate these dynamic times, your business could fall behind. This panel will offer bold insights and strategies for future success from the next generation of jewelry leaders, Jewelers of America’s 20 Under 40 in Jewelry Retail.
Speakers
avatar for Amanda Gizzi

Amanda Gizzi

Senior Vice President of Corporate Affairs, Jewelers of America
Amanda Gizzi is the Director of Public Relations & Special Events for Jewelers of America (JA), a nonprofit trade association serving the fine jewelry retail industry. JA’s consumer education arm, Jewelry Information Center (JIC), is a unique resource for trend forecasting, industry... Read More →
Tuesday September 15, 2026 9:00am - 10:00am EDT
Congressional A
  Track, Business Management

9:00am EDT

The Magic Is in the Details: What Jewelry Design Teaches You About Buying, Merchandising, and Building a Collection That Sells Itself
Tuesday September 15, 2026 9:00am - 10:00am EDT
Augusta A
You can source the finest stones, hire the best staff, and build a beautiful case — and still lose the sale to a competitor whose collection simply has a stronger point of view. Design is not decoration. It is strategy. And in this session, Andrea Lucille Pooler, COO of Modani Jewels, draws on more than 25 years in the jewelry industry, beginning at the bench where she became a master jeweler,...
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Speakers
avatar for Andrea Lucille Pooler

Andrea Lucille Pooler

COO, Modani Jewels
Tuesday September 15, 2026 9:00am - 10:00am EDT
Augusta A
  Track, Sales and Marketing

9:00am EDT

Introduction to Jewelry Forensics
Tuesday September 15, 2026 9:00am - 11:00am EDT
Royal Dublin A
This Hands-on GIA session will be repeated. Space is limited to 24 participants and is first-come, first-served.Buyers of used jewelry and those who take in jewelry for appraisal or repair go through a process to identify, analyze, and assess the quality and nature of an item. Many know only certain aspects of manufacturing and are only able to recognize a narrow range of certain make traces. GIA...
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Speakers
avatar for Mike Magee

Mike Magee

Senior Subject Specialist, Jewelry Manufacturing Arts, GIA
Mike Magee is a Sr. Subject Specialist in the jewelry manufacturing arts at GIA. An award-winning CAD designer, Mike has spent more than 25 years in the jewelry industry and over 15 years teaching CAD/CAM and digital jewelry design. After graduating from Cornell University, he trained... Read More →
avatar for Al Gilbertson, CG

Al Gilbertson, CG

Project Manager of Cut-Research, GIA
Al, currently the Project Manager of Cut-Research at GIA’s Carlsbad Laboratory, was raised in the lapidary (gem-cutting) business and eventually managed a high-end AGS retail jeweler whose shop employed several custom goldsmiths. He later owned a high-end trade shop specializing... Read More →
Tuesday September 15, 2026 9:00am - 11:00am EDT
Royal Dublin A
  Track, GIA Hands-On

9:00am EDT

The Microworld of Natural Diamonds
Tuesday September 15, 2026 9:00am - 11:00am EDT
Royal Dublin B
This Hands-on GIA session will be repeated. Space is limited to 24 participants and is first-come, first-served. Dive into the microworld of natural diamonds with a renowned analytical microscopist, gemologist, and award-winning photomicrographer. This presentation will explore some of the most fascinating inclusions and microfeatures found in natural diamonds as well as discuss why they are...
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Speakers
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 →
Tuesday September 15, 2026 9:00am - 11:00am EDT
Royal Dublin B
  Track, GIA Hands-On

10:00am EDT

Networking Break
Tuesday September 15, 2026 10:00am - 10:30am EDT
International 2 & 3
These breaks are a great opportunity to recharge and visit the networking booths to see what products and services are available from Conclave sponsors.
Tuesday September 15, 2026 10:00am - 10:30am EDT
International 2 & 3
  Networking Event

10:00am EDT

Networking Area Open
Tuesday September 15, 2026 10:00am - 5:30pm EDT
International 2 & 3
Tuesday September 15, 2026 10:00am - 5:30pm EDT
International 2 & 3
  Networking Event

10:30am EDT

AWCI Mobile Classroom: Workshop: Modern Watch Timing Equipment: Watch Timers and Their Use
Tuesday September 15, 2026 10:30am - 11:30am EDT
Walkway to Oscola
This class will utilize modern Witschi mechanical watch timing equipment to analyze mechanical 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
JZ

Jason Ziegenbein

Lead Watch Educator, AWCI
Tuesday September 15, 2026 10:30am - 11:30am EDT
Walkway to Oscola
  Track, AWCI Hands-On

10:30am EDT

Casting 101 for Non-Casting Jewelry Professionals
Tuesday September 15, 2026 10:30am - 11:30am EDT
Olympic A
Understanding the lost-wax casting process is critical for everyone in the jewelry ecosystem – even if they are not bench jewelers or in a casting shop. This session will illustrate the process from design concept to metal. We will touch on pattern creation, building a mold and spruing the jewelry, ceramic investments, kiln firing, and, finally, casting into the alloy of your choice. Highlights...
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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
Tuesday September 15, 2026 10:30am - 11:30am EDT
Olympic A
  Track, Gems Jewelry and Watches

10:30am EDT

Colored Stone Treatments in the 21st Century
Tuesday September 15, 2026 10:30am - 11:30am EDT
Royal Melbourne A
This GIA session will be repeated.Untreated vs treated gemstones have very different market values, which require the disclosure of treatments to be crucial. From initial discovery to showcasing the treatment's overall effect, this presentation will explore some of the most significant treatments introduced into the market in the 21st century. Gemstone treatments are not going away, which means...
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Speakers
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 →
Tuesday September 15, 2026 10:30am - 11:30am EDT
Royal Melbourne A
  Track, GIA Lecture

10:30am EDT

Creating Collectors the Crayola Way
Tuesday September 15, 2026 10:30am - 11:30am EDT
Augusta A
Gem merchants, retail owners, staff, and clients all agree that describing color can be difficult. We can see it in our mind, we know the saturation we're seeking, but we can't quite describe it—it's just a half shade darker or lighter or just a tad more purple in the blue, just a touch more pink to the red... With so many choices of colored gemstones in the world, how does one get it right,...
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Speakers
avatar for Shelly Sergent

Shelly Sergent

Curator of Collection, Somewhere In The Rainbow Collection
Somewhere In The Rainbow specializes in colored gemstones, handcrafted designer jewels, the American Innovator time period, museum exhibitions, and the collection of colored gems. Feel free to talk to me about anything colorful, masterful, and fun! I've spent 44 years in the industry... Read More →
Tuesday September 15, 2026 10:30am - 11:30am EDT
Augusta A
  Track, Sales and Marketing

10:30am EDT

Recruit Top Jeweler Talent: Connecting AGS Members with top talent from SCAD’s Jewelry Program
Tuesday September 15, 2026 10:30am - 11:30am EDT
Congressional B
As part of AGS’s support of the Bench Education Endowment initiative by Jewelers Mutual and its collaboration with Savannah College of Art and Design (SCAD), members have access to exciting new opportunities to connect with exceptional emerging talent. This session will explore how AGS members can engage with SCAD’s career services ecosystem to recruit interns, apprentices, bench talent, and...
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Tuesday September 15, 2026 10:30am - 11:30am EDT
Congressional B
  Track, Business Management

10:30am EDT

Selling to Gen Z in 2026: What Actually Works Now
Tuesday September 15, 2026 10:30am - 11:30am EDT
Congressional A
Gen Z is reshaping how jewelry is discovered, evaluated, and purchased—especially in the engagement category. In this candid panel, Communications & PR consultant Jen Cullen Williams is joined by Gen Z and young millennial jewelry professionals to break down what’s resonating now. From shifting engagement ring preferences to the role of social media, authenticity, and in-store experience, this...
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Speakers
avatar for Jen Cullen Williams

Jen Cullen Williams

Founder, Jen Cullen Williams Communications
Jen Cullen Williams is an award-winning communications consultant recognized for her expertise in retail and marketing trends and her ability to connect businesses with media and consumers to drive visibility and growth. Since launching her career in 2006 in PR agencies, and later... Read More →
Tuesday September 15, 2026 10:30am - 11:30am EDT
Congressional A
  Track, Sales and Marketing

10:30am EDT

The New AGS Appraisal and Report Standards
Tuesday September 15, 2026 10:30am - 11:30am EDT
Olympic B
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 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 →
Tuesday September 15, 2026 10:30am - 11:30am EDT
Olympic B
  Track, Appraisals

10:30am EDT

The New Diamond Horizon: Merchandising & Profit in a K-Shaped World
Tuesday September 15, 2026 10:30am - 11:30am EDT
Colonial A
The diamond category is undergoing dramatic changes. Structural changes upstream include Anglo American’s plan to sell De Beers, alongside continued LGD demand. In this session, we’ll translate market shifts into practical decisions AGS retailers can implement immediately: What to stock (and what to stop stocking) How to merchandise for a K-shaped consumer economy where affluent buyers remain...
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Speakers
GK

Gaurav Khandelwal

COO, Union Gems
Tuesday September 15, 2026 10:30am - 11:30am EDT
Colonial A
  Track, Business Management

11:30am EDT

Lunch Buffet Open
Tuesday September 15, 2026 11:30am - 2:00pm EDT
National Ballroom

Tuesday September 15, 2026 11:30am - 2:00pm EDT
National Ballroom

12:00pm EDT

Opening Keynote and Lunch
Tuesday September 15, 2026 12:00pm - 2:00pm EDT
National Ballroom
Ben Nemtin kicks off Conclave 2026. Ben is an acclaimed keynote speaker who has energized Fortune 100 leadership teams and major conferences worldwide—including AIG, Amazon, FedEx, Harvard, Microsoft, and Verizon—and was ranked the 3rd Best Motivational Speaker in the World by Global Gurus in 2022. In his keynotes, Ben shares powerful, practical strategies for building resilient,...
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Speakers
BN
Tuesday September 15, 2026 12:00pm - 2:00pm EDT
National Ballroom
  General Session

2:00pm EDT

Coffee and Dessert Break
Tuesday September 15, 2026 2:00pm - 2:30pm EDT
International 2 & 3
Take time for coffee, contemplation, and conversation! The afternoon Coffee and Dessert Breaks are a great chance to grab a bite or a cup of coffee and relax while you mingle! Located in the Networking Area, these breaks give you the opportunity to visit the networking booths and thank your AGS Partner for their support of Conclave. Have a sweet time recharging before the next...
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Tuesday September 15, 2026 2:00pm - 2:30pm EDT
International 2 & 3
  Networking Event

2:30pm EDT

Featured Speaker: Ben Nemtin
Tuesday September 15, 2026 2:30pm - 3:30pm EDT
International 1
Our opening keynote is also our featured speaker. Consider this an extension of Ben’s keynote address, where he dives deeper into his Buried Life movement and theory, and how it can inspire you to reach your goals.
Speakers
BN
Tuesday September 15, 2026 2:30pm - 3:30pm EDT
International 1
  Featured Speaker

2:30pm EDT

AI's Next Role in Jewelry Design
Tuesday September 15, 2026 2:30pm - 3:30pm EDT
Royal Melbourne A
This GIA session will be repeated.Generative AI is moving quickly from a novelty tool for inspiration toward a practical part of the jewelry design workflow. This session explores how today’s AI platforms are being used to create more realistic jewelry concepts, test material and proportion accuracy, and support the development of 3D design assets. We will look at where these tools are already...
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Speakers
avatar for Mike Magee

Mike Magee

Senior Subject Specialist, Jewelry Manufacturing Arts, GIA
Mike Magee is a Sr. Subject Specialist in the jewelry manufacturing arts at GIA. An award-winning CAD designer, Mike has spent more than 25 years in the jewelry industry and over 15 years teaching CAD/CAM and digital jewelry design. After graduating from Cornell University, he trained... Read More →
Tuesday September 15, 2026 2:30pm - 3:30pm EDT
Royal Melbourne A
  Track, GIA Lecture

2:30pm EDT

Gem Sciences Committee Meeting
Tuesday September 15, 2026 2:30pm - 3:30pm EDT
Royal Melbourne B
Tuesday September 15, 2026 2:30pm - 3:30pm EDT
Royal Melbourne B
  Track, Committee Meeting

2:30pm EDT

How to Find/Locate Watchmakers
Tuesday September 15, 2026 2:30pm - 3:30pm EDT
Congressional B
Finding a qualified watchmaker in today’s market can feel like searching for a needle in a haystack—but it doesn’t have to be. In this session, we’ll share successful strategies for locating and attracting skilled watchmakers to support your store’s repair department. From recruitment tactics to workplace culture, we’ll talk about what draws talent in—and what drives it away. Whether...
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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
Tuesday September 15, 2026 2:30pm - 3:30pm EDT
Congressional B
  Track, Gems Jewelry and Watches

2:30pm EDT

Natural Diamonds Have Never Had a Better Story. Is Your Team Telling It?
Tuesday September 15, 2026 2:30pm - 3:30pm EDT
Augusta A
Today's diamond consumer is asking harder questions, and the retailers who can answer them accurately and compellingly earn loyalty, repeat business, and referrals. In this session, Grant Mobley gives retailers a playbook for talking about natural diamonds in an honest, fascinating, and genuinely persuasive way without overselling or sounding scripted. You'll walk away knowing how to communicate...
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Speakers
avatar for Grant Mobley

Grant Mobley

Jewelry & Watch Editor, Natural Diamond Council
Grant Mobley is the Jewelry & Watch Editor of Only Natural Diamonds and the Natural Diamond Council and writer and contributor of diamond and diamond industry-focused content. He comes with 17 years of jewelry industry experience, starting with growing up in his family’s retail... Read More →
Tuesday September 15, 2026 2:30pm - 3:30pm EDT
Augusta A
  Track, Sales and Marketing

2:30pm EDT

Our Changing Jewelry Industry
Tuesday September 15, 2026 2:30pm - 3:30pm EDT
Colonial A
This session offers a comprehensive exploration of today's jewelry industry, which is navigating through challenging economic and geopolitical conditions. It will provide a macro view of the headwinds and tailwinds influencing our jewelry industry, including market size and growth, industry health, and competitive influences. With a focus on the jewelry store market, topics include sales trends,...
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Speakers
avatar for Harold Dupuy, FGA

Harold Dupuy, FGA

Vice President Strategic Analysis, Stuller, Inc.
Harold Dupuy, Vice President of Strategic Analysis at Stuller, Inc., is the 2020 AGS Sallie Morton Award recipient, recognized for presenting jewelry market analysis to industry organizations. He is a Fellow of the Gemological Association of Great Britain (FGA), a Graduate Gemologist... Read More →
Tuesday September 15, 2026 2:30pm - 3:30pm EDT
Colonial A
  Track, Business Management

2:30pm EDT

Secret Teachings of a Gem Buyer: Field-Tested Techniques for Unlocking Value in Estate Jewelry
Tuesday September 15, 2026 2:30pm - 3:30pm EDT
Olympic A
As wealth transitions from baby boomers to the next generation, more estate jewelry is re-entering the market, often with rare gems unseen for decades. For jewelers and gem professionals, that creates both opportunity and risk. This session combines practical gemology with real-world buying strategy, sharing field-tested techniques from high-volume colored stone acquisition. Attendees will learn...
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Speakers
BE

Bert Esterhuysen, CG

Sustainability Partner & Gem Buyer, Rothschild Trading Company

Tuesday September 15, 2026 2:30pm - 3:30pm EDT
Olympic A
  Track, Gems Jewelry and Watches

2:30pm EDT

Selling with Proof: How Digital Storytelling and Provenance Drive Diamond Sales
Tuesday September 15, 2026 2:30pm - 3:30pm EDT
Congressional A
Today’s diamond clients are not just buying beauty. They are buying transparency, personalization, and experience. This session explores how verified origin and digital storytelling are reshaping the diamond selling process. Panelists will share how retailers are using technology to build trust, simplify decisions, and elevate the in-store experience. They will also address rarity, including...
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Speakers
MK

Moshe Klein

Chief Executive Officer, Grandview Klein Diamonds

Panelists
MB

Mahiar Borhanjoo

Chief Commercial Officer, SVP Polish, De Beers Group

Tuesday September 15, 2026 2:30pm - 3:30pm EDT
Congressional A
  Track, Sales and Marketing

2:30pm EDT

The Importance of Impactful Signage for Jewelry Stores
Tuesday September 15, 2026 2:30pm - 3:30pm EDT
Colonial B
Impactful signage helps customers navigate the store easily and reduces the mental effort it takes to find what they want. It also significantly impacts the overall shopping experience by creating an inviting atmosphere and showcasing products effectively. Imagine walking into a store, eager to purchase a specific piece of jewelry, only to leave empty-handed because you could not find it. Sound...
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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 →
Tuesday September 15, 2026 2:30pm - 3:30pm EDT
Colonial B
  Track, Business Management

2:30pm EDT

(Un)Natural Beauty: Treatments in Ruby & Sapphire
Tuesday September 15, 2026 2:30pm - 4:30pm EDT
Royal Dublin A
This Hands-on GIA session will be repeated. Space is limited to 24 participants and is first-come, first-served.In today’s market, it is increasingly rare to come across ruby and sapphire whose beauty and appeal is entirely due to natural processes. During this hands-on seminar, GIA experts provide an in-depth understanding of various artificial treatments for ruby and sapphire. Through...
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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 →
Tuesday September 15, 2026 2:30pm - 4:30pm EDT
Royal Dublin A
  Track, GIA Hands-On

2:30pm EDT

The Amazing Natural Diamond Story
Tuesday September 15, 2026 2:30pm - 4:30pm EDT
Royal Dublin B
This Hands-on GIA session will be repeated. Space is limited to 24 participants and is first-come, first-served.Many jewelers work with diamonds on almost a daily basis, and they can lose sight of how remarkable these natural gemstones are. This presentation will discuss the geological conditions of diamond formation that give rise to their rarity, and the distinctive features which provide...
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Speakers
avatar for James Shigley, Ph.D.

James Shigley, Ph.D.

Distinguished Research Fellow, GIA
Dr. James Shigley is a distinguished research fellow at the Gemological Institute of America in Carlsbad, California.  Prior to joining GIA in 1982, he studied geology as an undergraduate at the University of California Berkeley and later received his doctorate in geology from Stanford... Read More →
avatar for Brenda Harwick

Brenda Harwick

Senior Manager, On Campus and Lab Gemology Instruction, GIA
A specialist in both the theory and practice of diamond grading, colored stone grading, and gem identification, Brenda Harwick’s expertise comes from a ten-year background in retail and gemological training. Brenda earned her Graduate Gemologist diploma, and in 1999 she was hired... Read More →
Tuesday September 15, 2026 2:30pm - 4:30pm EDT
Royal Dublin B
  Track, GIA Hands-On

3:30pm EDT

Networking Break
Tuesday September 15, 2026 3:30pm - 4:00pm EDT
International 2 & 3
These breaks are a great opportunity to recharge and visit the networking booths to see what products and services are available from Conclave sponsors.
Tuesday September 15, 2026 3:30pm - 4:00pm EDT
International 2 & 3
  Networking Event

4:00pm EDT

AWCI Mobile Classroom: Workshop: Cell Replacement, The Right Way
Tuesday September 15, 2026 4:00pm - 5:00pm EDT
Walkway to Oscola
This class will utilize modern ways to test the cell and movement ensuring a successful service for your customer. Movement cleanliness is a key element to ensure success. Part of this course will be hands-on with movements, tooling, 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 →
Tuesday September 15, 2026 4:00pm - 5:00pm EDT
Walkway to Oscola
  Track, AWCI Hands-On

4:00pm EDT

Brand Storytelling Through Experiences
Tuesday September 15, 2026 4:00pm - 5:00pm EDT
Congressional A
Having great products is no longer enough; you need to tell a story that is easy to connect with and remember. But what’s the most effective way to bring that story to life? In this session, event experts will focus on how to translate brand identity into meaningful, memorable customer experiences. From everyday interactions to curated events, panelists will share practical, innovative ways to...
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Speakers
avatar for Anna Samsonova, CG

Anna Samsonova, CG

Owner, Samsonova Consulting

Tuesday September 15, 2026 4:00pm - 5:00pm EDT
Congressional A
  Track, Sales and Marketing

4:00pm EDT

From Mine to Market: Using Tech to Sell Gemstones and the Stories Behind Them
Tuesday September 15, 2026 4:00pm - 5:00pm EDT
Augusta A
Are you wondering how much to invest in digital assets? Concerned about the ROI of time and money to implement systems? Luxury gemstone and jewelry sales are built on relationships, but today’s buyers also expect powerful digital tools. How do you balance both? ANZA Gems founder Monica Stephenson and Gemist founder Madeline Fraser share a candid look at how a wholesale gemstone company uses...
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Speakers
avatar for Monica Stephenson

Monica Stephenson

President, ANZA Gems

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 →
Tuesday September 15, 2026 4:00pm - 5:00pm EDT
Augusta A
  Track, Sales and Marketing

4:00pm EDT

From Owner to Legacy Builder: Preparing the Next Generation of Leaders
Tuesday September 15, 2026 4:00pm - 5:00pm EDT
Colonial A
Many retail jewelry store owners have built successful businesses but lack a clear plan for developing future leaders and transitioning authority. This session provides a practical framework to identify, develop, and empower the next generation. Attendees will learn how to move beyond informal succession planning and implement a structured approach to leadership development, accountability, and...
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Speakers
avatar for Stephen Barnes

Stephen Barnes

Owner/CEO, Independent Jewelers Organization (IJO)
Tuesday September 15, 2026 4:00pm - 5:00pm EDT
Colonial A
  Track, Business Management

4:00pm EDT

Organized Retail Crime in 2026: Evolving Threats and Practical Strategies for Luxury Retail
Tuesday September 15, 2026 4:00pm - 5:00pm EDT
Colonial B
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...
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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)
Tuesday September 15, 2026 4:00pm - 5:00pm EDT
Colonial B
  Track, Business Management

4:00pm EDT

Partner Advisory Council
Tuesday September 15, 2026 4:00pm - 5:00pm EDT
Congressional B
[]
Tuesday September 15, 2026 4:00pm - 5:00pm EDT
Congressional B
  Track, Committee Meeting

4:00pm EDT

Recent Advances in Laboratory-Grown Diamond Screening Technologies
Tuesday September 15, 2026 4:00pm - 5:00pm EDT
Olympic B
Production of laboratory-grown diamonds (LGD) for jewelry is constantly evolving, introducing new advancements that occasionally alter the properties of these stones. These changes raise the risk of misidentification by trade members using shelf product screening devices (also known as Diamond Verification Instruments), which could lead to reputational damage and loss of trust. This presentation...
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Speakers
avatar for Guy Borenstein

Guy Borenstein

Director of Gemological Research and Lab Services, Stuller Inc.
Guy Borenstein, FGA EGG, is Stuller's Director of Gemological Research and Lab Services, leading the company's comprehensive diamond screening and gemological testing operations across its global facilities.
In addition to directing fully equipped, high-volume gemological laboratory operations, Borenstein's other responsibilities include heading the company's diamond screening array, testing more than 5 million units a year; developing new testing techniques and protocols for diamonds... Read More →
Tuesday September 15, 2026 4:00pm - 5:00pm EDT
Olympic B
  Track, Gems Jewelry and Watches

4:00pm EDT

Scaling the Sparkle: The Manufacturing Roadmap for Automated Faceting
Tuesday September 15, 2026 4:00pm - 5:00pm EDT
Olympic A
While automated faceting promises a revolution in consistency and throughput, the transition from artisanal cutting to industrial-scale manufacturing is fraught with hurdles. This session is a deep dive for manufacturers, production managers, and large-scale wholesalers into the practicalities of a "lights-out" lapidary shop. We will analyze the opportunities—such as a projected 23.4% CAGR in...
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Speakers
LH

Lee Haynes

Owner, LWH Gems
Tuesday September 15, 2026 4:00pm - 5:00pm EDT
Olympic A
  Track, Gems Jewelry and Watches

4:00pm EDT

The Repair Experience Blueprint: Turning Every Intake Into Lifetime Revenue
Tuesday September 15, 2026 4:00pm - 5:00pm EDT
Augusta B
Your Repair Counter Could Be Your Most Powerful Profit Center—If You Treat It Right. Repairs are one of the most overlooked, yet lucrative, opportunities in jewelry. Jimmy Lawson reveals a proven 5-step Repair Intake System that transforms routine service into revenue and lifelong client relationships. From a simple cleaning and inspection to “The Dance” of meaningful conversations and...
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Speakers
JL

Jimmy Lawson

VP Business Development, JD&Co A Trung Do Goldsmith Co
Tuesday September 15, 2026 4:00pm - 5:00pm EDT
Augusta B
  Track, Sales and Marketing

5:00pm EDT

Networking Break
Tuesday September 15, 2026 5:00pm - 5:30pm EDT
International 2 & 3
These breaks are a great opportunity to recharge and visit the networking booths to see what products and services are available from Conclave sponsors.
Tuesday September 15, 2026 5:00pm - 5:30pm EDT
International 2 & 3
  Networking Event

6:30pm EDT

AGS Suppliers' Showcase and Reception
Tuesday September 15, 2026 6:30pm - 9:00pm EDT
National Ballroom
Conclave’s best kind of sparkle is happening here. The AGS Suppliers’ Showcase and Reception is your chance to mix, mingle, and get a first look at breathtaking jewelry from the industry’s most trusted suppliers—your fellow AGS members. Every supplier in the room has been vetted by AGS and brings the same mindset you do: quality without compromise, service that delivers, and pieces that...
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Tuesday September 15, 2026 6:30pm - 9:00pm EDT
National Ballroom
  Networking Event

9:00pm EDT

Trivia Night brought to you by the AGS Young Titleholders
Tuesday September 15, 2026 9:00pm - 11:00pm EDT
Eagles Edge
Don’t miss the AGS Young Titleholders Trivia Night! Test your knowledge of anything and everything from gemology to history to one-hit wonders. This annual Conclave good time is an exhilarating mix of competition and full-throttle laughter as teams vie for the Trivia Night title. Everyone is welcome!

The AGS Young Titleholders Trivia Night is sponsored by:

Tuesday September 15, 2026 9:00pm - 11:00pm EDT
Eagles Edge
  Networking Event
 
Wednesday, September 16
 

7:00am EDT

Registration Open
Wednesday September 16, 2026 7:00am - 6:00pm EDT
Rotunda
Conclave is open for business! Come to the Conclave Registration Desk to pick up your event essentials.
Wednesday September 16, 2026 7:00am - 6:00pm EDT
Rotunda
  Registration

8:00am EDT

Breakfast Buffet Open
Wednesday September 16, 2026 8:00am - 10:00am EDT
National Ballroom
Wednesday September 16, 2026 8:00am - 10:00am EDT
National Ballroom

8:15am EDT

Breakfast and Keynote
Wednesday September 16, 2026 8:15am - 10:00am EDT
National Ballroom
Enjoy a buffet breakfast and be energized by our keynote speaker, Will Guidara. Will is the author of the New York Times bestselling Unreasonable Hospitality, which shares the lessons in service and leadership he’s learned throughout his career in restaurants, including as former co-owner of Eleven Madison Park—an acclaimed destination that earned four stars from the New York...
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Speakers
avatar for Will Guidara

Will Guidara

Will Guidara is the author of The New York Times Bestseller Unreasonable Hospitality, which chronicles the lessons in service and leadership he has learned over the course of his career in restaurants. He is the former co-owner Eleven Madison Park, which under his leadership received four stars from the New York Times, three Michelin stars, and in 2017 was named... Read More →
Wednesday September 16, 2026 8:15am - 10:00am EDT
National Ballroom
  General Session

10:00am EDT

Networking Area Open
Wednesday September 16, 2026 10:00am - 5:30pm EDT
International 2 & 3
Wednesday September 16, 2026 10:00am - 5:30pm EDT
International 2 & 3
  Networking Event

10:15am EDT

AWCI Mobile Classroom: Workshop: Modern Watch Timing Equipment: Watch Timers and Their Use
Wednesday September 16, 2026 10:15am - 11:15am EDT
Walkway to Oscola
This class will utilize modern Witschi mechanical watch timing equipment to analyze mechanical 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
JZ

Jason Ziegenbein

Lead Watch Educator, AWCI
Wednesday September 16, 2026 10:15am - 11:15am EDT
Walkway to Oscola
  Track, AWCI Hands-On

10:15am EDT

Beyond Bridal: Elevating the Independent Jeweler Experience
Wednesday September 16, 2026 10:15am - 11:15am EDT
Congressional B
Today's discerning client wants personalization, curation, and an experience. We'll look beyond the bridal case — sourcing like an insider and building a concierge, style-led sales model that meets them where they are.
Speakers
RB
Panelists
avatar for Grant Mobley

Grant Mobley

Jewelry & Watch Editor, Natural Diamond Council
Grant Mobley is the Jewelry & Watch Editor of Only Natural Diamonds and the Natural Diamond Council and writer and contributor of diamond and diamond industry-focused content. He comes with 17 years of jewelry industry experience, starting with growing up in his family’s retail... Read More →
avatar for Mark Klein

Mark Klein

Vice President, Julius Klein Diamonds
Mark is a 3rd generation Diamantaire, following in his families heritage who established Julius Klein Diamonds in 1948.

Mark has firsthand knowledge, experience, and expertise of the entire global diamond trade. From overseeing master diamond cutters and polishers in the company’s diamond cutting facilities, to working first hand with the jewelry manufacturing team, to the ultimate selling and distribution... Read More →
NN

Niveet Nagpal

Omi Gems, Inc.

Wednesday September 16, 2026 10:15am - 11:15am EDT
Congressional B
  Track, Sales and Marketing

10:15am EDT

Build Your Diamond Story: A Workshop for Modern Retailers
Wednesday September 16, 2026 10:15am - 11:15am EDT
Augusta A
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...
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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
  Track, Sales and Marketing

10:15am EDT

Building the Future – Platinum Education & the Next Generation of Jewelers
Wednesday September 16, 2026 10:15am - 11:15am EDT
Congressional A
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...
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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
  Track, Gems Jewelry and Watches

10:15am EDT

Frontiers in Colored Stone Origin Research: Jade, Opal, Demantoid, and Peridot
Wednesday September 16, 2026 10:15am - 11:15am EDT
Royal Melbourne A
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...
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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
  Track, GIA Lecture

10:15am EDT

Legal & Compliance Essentials for Today’s Jewelry Professionals
Wednesday September 16, 2026 10:15am - 11:15am EDT
Augusta B
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...
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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
  Track, Business Management

10:15am EDT

Luminescence – A Hugely Underrated Physical Property in Gem Testing
Wednesday September 16, 2026 10:15am - 11:15am EDT
Olympic A
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...
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Speakers
avatar for Thomas Hainschwang

Thomas Hainschwang

CEO, GGTL Laboratories
I am Director and co-founder of GGTL Laboratories (GGTL Laboratories Liechtenstein). I have founded Gemlab (Liechtenstein) in 1996 and have joined a very close collaboration with GemTechLab in Geneva in 2011, through which GGTL Laboratories emerged, with the three member labs in Liechtenstein... Read More →
Wednesday September 16, 2026 10:15am - 11:15am EDT
Olympic A
  Track, Gems Jewelry and Watches

10:15am EDT

Pure Transparency
Wednesday September 16, 2026 10:15am - 11:15am EDT
Colonial B
In an industry built on trust, I believe transparency is no longer optional — it is the foundation of sustainable growth. At Shree Ramkrishna Exports, this belief has been deeply shaped by my father, Shri Govind Dholakia, who has always led with integrity, purpose, and a people-first approach. In this session, I will share how we have embedded what we call “Pure Transparency” into our...
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Speakers
SD

Shreyans Dholakia

Entrepreneur- Brand Custodian, Shree Ramkrishna Exports Pvt. Ltd.
Wednesday September 16, 2026 10:15am - 11:15am EDT
Colonial B
  Track, Business Management

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
Colonial A
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...
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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
  Track, Business Management

10:15am EDT

Introduction to Jewelry Forensics
Wednesday September 16, 2026 10:15am - 12:15pm EDT
Royal Dublin A
Space for this Hands-on GIA session is limited to 24 participants and is first-come, first-served.Buyers of used jewelry and those who take in jewelry for appraisal or repair go through a process to identify, analyze, and assess the quality and nature of an item. Many know only certain aspects of manufacturing and are only able to recognize a narrow range of certain make traces. GIA has a...
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Speakers
avatar for Mike Magee

Mike Magee

Senior Subject Specialist, Jewelry Manufacturing Arts, GIA
Mike Magee is a Sr. Subject Specialist in the jewelry manufacturing arts at GIA. An award-winning CAD designer, Mike has spent more than 25 years in the jewelry industry and over 15 years teaching CAD/CAM and digital jewelry design. After graduating from Cornell University, he trained... Read More →
avatar for Al Gilbertson, CG

Al Gilbertson, CG

Project Manager of Cut-Research, GIA
Al, currently the Project Manager of Cut-Research at GIA’s Carlsbad Laboratory, was raised in the lapidary (gem-cutting) business and eventually managed a high-end AGS retail jeweler whose shop employed several custom goldsmiths. He later owned a high-end trade shop specializing... Read More →
Wednesday September 16, 2026 10:15am - 12:15pm EDT
Royal Dublin A
  Track, GIA Hands-On

10:15am EDT

Making the Call - Check List of the Defining Features of the major US jewelry periods from 1850-1950: A Systematic approach
Wednesday September 16, 2026 10:15am - 12:15pm EDT
Olympic B
This presentation is a 2-hour lecture and hands-on session.Decisions, decisions—making an era call can be a tough decision, but it also shows your expertise. Suzanne and Starla have dedicated their professional lives to the forensics of jewelry dating. Part 1 of this 2-hour session covers the critical design elements, construction techniques, and materials available to create a set of factors...
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Speakers
avatar for Starla Turner

Starla Turner

Inventory Cataloguing and Staff Gemologist, Lang Antique and Estate Jewelry
I spend my day at the microscope deciphering  a piece of jewelrys' history by adding up the clues from all it's parts..  Each piece we handle has its story. The metals it was created from, the gems that embellished it, and how the metalsmith put it all together with the technology... Read More →
avatar for Suzanne Martinez

Suzanne Martinez

Owner/Buyer/Gemologist, Lang Antiques and Estate Jewelry
I am a credentialed senior gemologist, jewelry appraiser, jewelry historian and the curator for Lang's Antique jewelry collection. I actively buy from sellers all over the world and in our store. I am also the founder of our Antique Jewelry University. It would be my pleasure to help... Read More →
Wednesday September 16, 2026 10:15am - 12:15pm EDT
Olympic B
  Track, Gems Jewelry and Watches

10:15am EDT

The Amazing Natural Diamond Story
Wednesday September 16, 2026 10:15am - 12:15pm EDT
Royal Dublin B
Space for this Hands-on GIA session is limited to 24 participants and is first-come, first-served.Many jewelers work with diamonds on almost a daily basis, and they can lose sight of how remarkable these natural gemstones are. This presentation will discuss the geological conditions of diamond formation that give rise to their rarity, and the distinctive features which provide positive evidence of...
See More →
Speakers
avatar for James Shigley, Ph.D.

James Shigley, Ph.D.

Distinguished Research Fellow, GIA
Dr. James Shigley is a distinguished research fellow at the Gemological Institute of America in Carlsbad, California.  Prior to joining GIA in 1982, he studied geology as an undergraduate at the University of California Berkeley and later received his doctorate in geology from Stanford... Read More →
avatar for Brenda Harwick

Brenda Harwick

Senior Manager, On Campus and Lab Gemology Instruction, GIA
A specialist in both the theory and practice of diamond grading, colored stone grading, and gem identification, Brenda Harwick’s expertise comes from a ten-year background in retail and gemological training. Brenda earned her Graduate Gemologist diploma, and in 1999 she was hired... Read More →
Wednesday September 16, 2026 10:15am - 12:15pm EDT
Royal Dublin B
  Track, GIA Hands-On

11:15am EDT

Networking Break
Wednesday September 16, 2026 11:15am - 11:45am EDT
International 2 & 3
These breaks are a great opportunity to recharge and visit the networking booths to see what products and services are available from Conclave sponsors.
Wednesday September 16, 2026 11:15am - 11:45am EDT
International 2 & 3
  Networking Event

11:45am EDT

Featured Speaker: Dan Chuparkoff
Wednesday September 16, 2026 11:45am - 12:45pm EDT
International 1
Dan Chuparkoff is a trailblazer with 30+ years leading innovation and technology initiatives for industry leaders like Google, McKinsey & Company, Atlassian, and his own firm, Reinvention Labs—helping organizations harness AI, robotics, and emerging technologies to transform the way people work. His superpower is making complex things simple and useful, and he’s captivated audiences everywhere...
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Speakers
avatar for Dan Chuparkoff

Dan Chuparkoff

Reinvention Labs
Dan Chuparkoff is a trailblazer with over 30 years of experience leading innovation and technology initiatives for industry leaders including Google, McKinsey & Company, Atlassian, and his own firm, Reinvention Labs—helping organizations harness AI, robotics, and emerging technologies... Read More →
Wednesday September 16, 2026 11:45am - 12:45pm EDT
International 1
  Featured Speaker

11:45am EDT

AWCI Mobile Classroom: Workshop: Quartz Testers: How and Why
Wednesday September 16, 2026 11:45am - 12:45pm EDT
Walkway to Oscola
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
  Track, AWCI Hands-On

11:45am EDT

Future Legends
Wednesday September 16, 2026 11:45am - 12:45pm EDT
Congressional A
[]
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
  Track, GIA Panel

11:45am EDT

Natural Carat Crushers
Wednesday September 16, 2026 11:45am - 12:45pm EDT
Congressional B
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...
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Speakers
JG
Wednesday September 16, 2026 11:45am - 12:45pm EDT
Congressional B
  Track, Sales and Marketing

11:45am EDT

Sculptures of Light: The Artistry of Contrast in Fancy-Shaped Diamonds
Wednesday September 16, 2026 11:45am - 12:45pm EDT
Royal Melbourne A
This GIA session will be repeated.Sculptures of Light: The Artistry of Contrast explores the role of dark zone features in fancy-shaped diamonds and their influence on Visual Performance. Often misunderstood, contrast features are an impactful component of how diamonds create pattern and visual character. Through guided education, comparative analysis, and real-world examples, this presentation...
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Speakers
avatar for Amanda Hawkes, CG

Amanda Hawkes, CG

Research Support Manager, GIA
Amanda Hawkes, GG, is the Research Support Manager for GIA’s Cut Grade Research Team. She began her gemological career at AGS Laboratories in 2011, where she held a variety of diamond grading and leadership roles, including Laboratory Grading Manager, before joining GIA in 2022... Read More →
avatar for Lisa Kennedy

Lisa Kennedy

Technical Advisor, GIA
Lisa Kennedy is a Technical Advisor for GIA Education, known for her strong scientific foundation and more than a decade of hands-on gemological experience. She began her career in fine jewelry retail before advancing to GIA’s New York laboratory as a Gemologist, where she specialized... Read More →
Wednesday September 16, 2026 11:45am - 12:45pm EDT
Royal Melbourne A
  Track, GIA Lecture

11:45am EDT

The Art and Science of Why We Buy Luxury
Wednesday September 16, 2026 11:45am - 12:45pm EDT
Augusta B
Luxury purchases are often explained through demographics, psychographics, or income levels. Yet the decision to buy luxury—especially luxury jewelry—is rarely that straightforward. The motivations behind these purchases are far more complex, emotional, and often unconscious. This session will explore the art and science of luxury buying behavior. We examine the psychological forces that shape...
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Speakers
PS

Peter Smith

Principal Partner, The Retail Smiths
Wednesday September 16, 2026 11:45am - 12:45pm EDT
Augusta B
  Track, Sales and Marketing

11:45am EDT

The Art of Intentional Merchandising: Turning Product Into Story, Structure, and Sell-Through
Wednesday September 16, 2026 11:45am - 12:45pm EDT
Colonial B
Merchandising is not just about displaying product; it is about creating clarity, meaning, and a reason to shop. In today’s retail environment, many showcases are overfilled yet underperforming, leaving customers overwhelmed and disengaged. Intentional merchandising transforms existing inventory into cohesive, story-driven collections that guide the customer journey and improve conversion. In...
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Speakers
avatar for Nan Lung Palmer

Nan Lung Palmer

Owner and Managing Director, Facets Jewelry Consulting
Nan Lung Palmer is the Founder and Managing Director of FACEts Jewelry Consulting, a strategic merchandising and brand consultancy specializing in helping jewelry retailers, manufacturers, and designers create greater clarity, profitability, and intentional growth through the 5 P’s... Read More →
Wednesday September 16, 2026 11:45am - 12:45pm EDT
Colonial B
  Track, Business Management

11:45am EDT

The Leader You Imagined You'd Be and the One Your Business Actually Needs
Wednesday September 16, 2026 11:45am - 12:45pm EDT
Colonial A
Most jewelry business owners and managers became leaders by accident. They were great at the craft, great at the sale, great at the product—and one day found themselves responsible for people, culture, and performance without ever being taught how. The leader they imagine themselves to be rarely matches the leader their business actually demands. In this session, Andrea Lucille Pooler, COO of...
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Speakers
avatar for Andrea Lucille Pooler

Andrea Lucille Pooler

COO, Modani Jewels
Wednesday September 16, 2026 11:45am - 12:45pm EDT
Colonial A
  Track, Business Management

11:45am EDT

The New AGS Appraisal and Report Standards
Wednesday September 16, 2026 11:45am - 12:45pm EDT
Olympic A
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
  Track, Appraisals

12:45pm EDT

Quick Break
Wednesday September 16, 2026 12:45pm - 1:00pm EDT
International 2 & 3
These breaks are a great opportunity to recharge and visit the networking booths to see what products and services are available from Conclave sponsors.
Wednesday September 16, 2026 12:45pm - 1:00pm EDT
International 2 & 3
  Networking Event

1:00pm EDT

Robert M. Shipley Award® Luncheon
Wednesday September 16, 2026 1:00pm - 2:30pm EDT
National Ballroom
Join us for the Robert M. Shipley Luncheon, one of the Society’s most time-honored traditions. Robert M. Shipley, the founder of the American Gem Society (AGS) and GIA (Gemological Institute of America), is the father of organized gemological research and education in the United States. His vision was to professionalize the jewelry industry through ethics, education, and credentials. AGS and GIA...
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Wednesday September 16, 2026 1:00pm - 2:30pm EDT
National Ballroom
  General Session

2:30pm EDT

Coffee and Dessert Break
Wednesday September 16, 2026 2:30pm - 3:00pm EDT
International 2 & 3
Conclave is a fast-paced schedule jammed into three days, so a little break is needed! Located in the Networking Area, grab a bite of something sweet, have a cup of coffee, and enjoy chatting with other AGS members. Visit the networking booths and thank your AGS Partners for their support of Conclave. Ask them to tell you how they can assist with your business needs!Coffee and Dessert Breaks are...
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Wednesday September 16, 2026 2:30pm - 3:00pm EDT
International 2 & 3
  Networking Event

3:00pm EDT

Featured Speaker: Dan Chuparkoff
Wednesday September 16, 2026 3:00pm - 4:00pm EDT
International 1
Dan Chuparkoff is a trailblazer with 30+ years leading innovation and technology initiatives for industry leaders like Google, McKinsey & Company, Atlassian, and his own firm, Reinvention Labs—helping organizations harness AI, robotics, and emerging technologies to transform the way people work. His superpower is making complex things simple and useful, and he’s captivated audiences everywhere...
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Speakers
avatar for Dan Chuparkoff

Dan Chuparkoff

Reinvention Labs
Dan Chuparkoff is a trailblazer with over 30 years of experience leading innovation and technology initiatives for industry leaders including Google, McKinsey & Company, Atlassian, and his own firm, Reinvention Labs—helping organizations harness AI, robotics, and emerging technologies... Read More →
Wednesday September 16, 2026 3:00pm - 4:00pm EDT
International 1
  Featured Speaker

3:00pm EDT

Agentic AI: When Your Digital Assistant Starts Running the Store
Wednesday September 16, 2026 3:00pm - 4:00pm EDT
Colonial A
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...
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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
  Track, Business Management

3:00pm EDT

Attracting the Sustainable Shopper with an Impact-Driven Business Model
Wednesday September 16, 2026 3:00pm - 4:00pm EDT
Congressional B
This panel focuses on how ethical purchasing can help jewelers reach a growing demographic of clients who care about impact and accountability. It is designed as a practical “how to” conversation, not theory. Drawing on the experience of corporate buyers, retail store owners, and suppliers who prioritize transparent and fair supply chains, speakers will share what responsible practice looks...
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Speakers
avatar for Susan Wheeler

Susan Wheeler

Founder, Responsible Jewelry Transformative, VirtuGem, Susan Wheeler Design
I'm a jewelry designer and a responsible jewelry advocate who works to bring people together from across the global jewelry supply chain and work together to transform the jewelry industry to be more equitable and responsible. I'm the founder of the Responsible Jewelry Transformative... Read More →
Wednesday September 16, 2026 3:00pm - 4:00pm EDT
Congressional B
  Track, Business Management

3:00pm EDT

AWCI Mobile Classroom: Workshop: Water Resistance: Wet and Dry Methods
Wednesday September 16, 2026 3:00pm - 4:00pm EDT
Walkway to Oscola
Not only will the testers be demonstrated, but each participant will go hands-on with each machine. This training even includes programming these devices for their optimal use. Guidelines for testing will be discussed and specification charts will be handed out. Cases will be prepared for random testing. This is a hands-on workshop and tooling will be provided.
Speakers
JZ

Jason Ziegenbein

Lead Watch Educator, AWCI
Wednesday September 16, 2026 3:00pm - 4:00pm EDT
Walkway to Oscola
  Track, AWCI Hands-On

3:00pm EDT

Colored Gem Grading and Pricing Workshop
Wednesday September 16, 2026 3:00pm - 4:00pm EDT
Olympic B
This Hands-on session will be repeated. Space is limited to 20 participants and is first-come, first-served.This workshop will offer a systematic approach to grading gems for color, clarity, and cut. Various color systems will be discussed with actual hands-on grading of gemstones that I bring using the World of Color system. A methodology will be taught for assessing colored gemstones for clarity...
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Speakers
avatar for Richard Drucker

Richard Drucker

President Emeritus, Gemworld International
Richard Drucker is the founder and president emeritus of Gemworld International, Inc. in Glenview, Illinois. His credentials include: Graduate Gemologist of the Gemological Institute of America; Honorary Fellow of the Gemmological Association of Great Britain; Senior Member of the... Read More →
Wednesday September 16, 2026 3:00pm - 4:00pm EDT
Olympic B
  Track, Appraisals

3:00pm EDT

Edit to Grow: The Discipline Behind Profitable Jewelry Assortments from Concept to Retail
Wednesday September 16, 2026 3:00pm - 4:00pm EDT
Colonial B
Growth in today’s jewelry market does not come from carrying more product. It comes from carrying the right product with intention. As gold costs fluctuate and consumers become more informed before beginning the buying process, retailers and brands must rethink how assortments are structured, edited, and presented. Strategic assortment discipline, from initial design concept through the sales...
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Speakers
avatar for Nan Lung Palmer

Nan Lung Palmer

Owner and Managing Director, Facets Jewelry Consulting
Nan Lung Palmer is the Founder and Managing Director of FACEts Jewelry Consulting, a strategic merchandising and brand consultancy specializing in helping jewelry retailers, manufacturers, and designers create greater clarity, profitability, and intentional growth through the 5 P’s... Read More →
Wednesday September 16, 2026 3:00pm - 4:00pm EDT
Colonial B
  Track, Business Management

3:00pm EDT

From Custom Chaos to Scalable Revenue: Fixing the Custom Jewelry Sales Process
Wednesday September 16, 2026 3:00pm - 4:00pm EDT
Augusta A
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...
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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
  Track, Sales and Marketing

3:00pm EDT

Membership Committee Meeting
Wednesday September 16, 2026 3:00pm - 4:00pm EDT
Royal Melbourne B
Wednesday September 16, 2026 3:00pm - 4:00pm EDT
Royal Melbourne B
  Track, Committee Meeting

3:00pm EDT

SMS Marketing: The What, Why, & How for Jewelers
Wednesday September 16, 2026 3:00pm - 4:00pm EDT
Augusta B
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...
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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
  Track, Sales and Marketing

3:00pm EDT

The Future of Fine Jewelry: What’s Changing, What’s Enduring, and What Actually Matters
Wednesday September 16, 2026 3:00pm - 4:00pm EDT
Congressional A
Luxury jewelry is evolving fast—and no, it’s not just about bigger stones and higher gold prices. In this session, we’ll take a clear-eyed, good-humored look at what’s shaping the future of our industry: the rise of lab-grown diamonds, ongoing gold price volatility, tariffs and global supply chain shifts, changing consumer expectations, and what all of this means for brands and independent...
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Speakers
JR

Jodi Riesenberg

EVP TACORI, TACORI
Panelists
avatar for Alexis Padis

Alexis Padis

President, Padis Jewelry
Alexis Padis is President of Padis Jewelry in the San Francisco Bay Area. Padis Jewelry has been serving the Bay Area for 50 years and has five locations including three in San Francisco, a tasting room and jewelry store in Napa Valley, and a location within Broadway Plaza Mall in... Read More →
LB
NT
PT
Wednesday September 16, 2026 3:00pm - 4:00pm EDT
Congressional A
  Track, Sales and Marketing

3:00pm EDT

The Impact of Fluorescence on Diamond Appearance
Wednesday September 16, 2026 3:00pm - 4:00pm EDT
Royal Melbourne A
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...
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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
  Track, GIA Lecture

3:00pm EDT

What Every Jeweler Should Know About Precious Metals Metallurgy
Wednesday September 16, 2026 3:00pm - 4:00pm EDT
Olympic A
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...
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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 3:00pm - 4:00pm EDT
Olympic A
  Track, Gems Jewelry and Watches

3:00pm EDT

Speaking the Pearl Language
Wednesday September 16, 2026 3:00pm - 5:00pm EDT
Royal Dublin B
This Hands-on GIA session will be repeated. Space is limited to 24 participants and is first-come, first-served.The pearl market is more complex than ever, making precise terminology essential for protecting both your business and your customers. This session offers a concise look at pearl formation before diving into the core of pearl categorization. Using high-quality images and graphics...
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Speakers
avatar for Tao Hsu, Ph.D.

Tao Hsu, Ph.D.

Director of Gemology Content and Professional Development, GIA
Dr. Hsu received her PhD degree in geology from University of Southern California. She also earned a Bachelor of Engineering degree in Gemology from China University of Geosciences (Beijing). After joining GIA in 2012, she has been a major contributor to gemology content development... Read More →
avatar for Lisa Kennedy

Lisa Kennedy

Technical Advisor, GIA
Lisa Kennedy is a Technical Advisor for GIA Education, known for her strong scientific foundation and more than a decade of hands-on gemological experience. She began her career in fine jewelry retail before advancing to GIA’s New York laboratory as a Gemologist, where she specialized... Read More →
Wednesday September 16, 2026 3:00pm - 5:00pm EDT
Royal Dublin B
  Track, GIA Hands-On

3:00pm EDT

The Microworld of Natural Diamonds
Wednesday September 16, 2026 3:00pm - 5:00pm EDT
Royal Dublin A
Space for this Hands-on GIA session is limited to 24 participants and is first-come, first-served. Dive into the microworld of natural diamonds with a renowned analytical microscopist, gemologist, and award-winning photomicrographer. This presentation will explore some of the most fascinating inclusions and microfeatures found in natural diamonds as well as discuss why they are gemologically...
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Speakers
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 →
Wednesday September 16, 2026 3:00pm - 5:00pm EDT
Royal Dublin A
  Track, GIA Hands-On

4:00pm EDT

Networking Break
Wednesday September 16, 2026 4:00pm - 4:30pm EDT
International 2 & 3
These breaks are a great opportunity to recharge and visit the networking booths to see what products and services are available from Conclave sponsors.
Wednesday September 16, 2026 4:00pm - 4:30pm EDT
International 2 & 3
  Networking Event

4:30pm EDT

A Discussion of the Status of the Global (and US) Watch Industry
Wednesday September 16, 2026 4:30pm - 5:30pm EDT
Congressional B
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...
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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
  Track, Gems Jewelry and Watches

4:30pm EDT

AI's Next Role in Jewelry Design
Wednesday September 16, 2026 4:30pm - 5:30pm EDT
Royal Melbourne A
Generative AI is moving quickly from a novelty tool for inspiration toward a practical part of the jewelry design workflow. This session explores how today’s AI platforms are being used to create more realistic jewelry concepts, test material and proportion accuracy, and support the development of 3D design assets. We will look at where these tools are already helping retailers communicate ideas...
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Speakers
avatar for Mike Magee

Mike Magee

Senior Subject Specialist, Jewelry Manufacturing Arts, GIA
Mike Magee is a Sr. Subject Specialist in the jewelry manufacturing arts at GIA. An award-winning CAD designer, Mike has spent more than 25 years in the jewelry industry and over 15 years teaching CAD/CAM and digital jewelry design. After graduating from Cornell University, he trained... Read More →
Wednesday September 16, 2026 4:30pm - 5:30pm EDT
Royal Melbourne A
  Track, GIA Lecture

4:30pm EDT

Colored Gem Grading and Pricing Workshop
Wednesday September 16, 2026 4:30pm - 5:30pm EDT
Olympic B
Space for this Hands-on session is limited to 20 participants and is first-come, first-served.This workshop will offer a systematic approach to grading gems for color, clarity, and cut. Various color systems will be discussed with actual hands-on grading of gemstones that I bring using the World of Color system. A methodology will be taught for assessing colored gemstones for clarity and cut and...
See More →
Speakers
avatar for Richard Drucker

Richard Drucker

President Emeritus, Gemworld International
Richard Drucker is the founder and president emeritus of Gemworld International, Inc. in Glenview, Illinois. His credentials include: Graduate Gemologist of the Gemological Institute of America; Honorary Fellow of the Gemmological Association of Great Britain; Senior Member of the... Read More →
Wednesday September 16, 2026 4:30pm - 5:30pm EDT
Olympic B
  Track, Appraisals

4:30pm EDT

Designing Jewelry for Casting Success – From Concept to CAD to Efficient Finishing
Wednesday September 16, 2026 4:30pm - 5:30pm EDT
Olympic A
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...
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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
  Track, Gems Jewelry and Watches

4:30pm EDT

Jewelry Interior Design is Rising to the Challenge of Current Customer Demands
Wednesday September 16, 2026 4:30pm - 5:30pm EDT
Colonial B
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...
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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
  Track, Business Management

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
Colonial A
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...
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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
  Track, Business Management

4:30pm EDT

Seamless Selling: Where Brands Meet Retail
Wednesday September 16, 2026 4:30pm - 5:30pm EDT
Congressional A
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...
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Speakers
SM

Stephanie Major

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

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
Augusta A
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...
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Speakers
EW

Elizabeth West

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

4:30pm EDT

Turning Maybe Into a Same-Day Yes
Wednesday September 16, 2026 4:30pm - 5:30pm EDT
Augusta B
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...
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Speakers
DB

David Berdugo

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

4:30pm EDT

Young Titleholders Committee Meeting
Wednesday September 16, 2026 4:30pm - 5:30pm EDT
Royal Melbourne B
Wednesday September 16, 2026 4:30pm - 5:30pm EDT
Royal Melbourne B
  Track, Committee Meeting

5:00pm EDT

Disney Springs Free Night Adventure
Wednesday September 16, 2026 5:00pm - 10:00pm EDT
Porte Cochere/Valet
Looking for plans during your free night? Join us for an easy, care-free evening at Disney Springs—Orlando’s premier destination for shopping, dining, and entertainment. This optional add-on includes round-trip shuttle transportation from the Omni Orlando Resort at ChampionsGate to Disney Springs, giving you the freedom to explore at your own pace. Enjoy everything from quick bites and casual...
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Wednesday September 16, 2026 5:00pm - 10:00pm EDT
Porte Cochere/Valet
  Networking Event
 
Thursday, September 17
 

7:00am EDT

Registration Open
Thursday September 17, 2026 7:00am - 6:00pm EDT
Rotunda
Conclave is open for business! Come to the Conclave Registration Desk to pick up your event essentials.
Thursday September 17, 2026 7:00am - 6:00pm EDT
Rotunda
  Registration

8:00am EDT

Breakfast Buffet Open
Thursday September 17, 2026 8:00am - 10:00am EDT
National Ballroom
Thursday September 17, 2026 8:00am - 10:00am EDT
National Ballroom

8:30am EDT

Breakfast and Keynote
Thursday September 17, 2026 8:30am - 10:00am EDT
National Ballroom
The last day of Conclave starts off strong with a buffet breakfast and time to mingle with friends before the program kicks off promptly at 8:30 a.m. First, you will hear from Bryan Moeller, CGA, President of the AGS International Board of Directors, as well as get a “State of the AGS” update from AGS CEO Katherine Bodoh, RJ, who will also present the John J. Kennedy Award. Then it’s time...
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Speakers
avatar for Deanna Marsigliese

Deanna Marsigliese

Deanna Marsigliese is an Italian-Canadian Art Director, Character Designer and 2D Animator based in San Francisco, CA.

Specializing in storytelling through character design, Marsigliese has worked for Pixar Animation Studios since 2012. Her credits include Luca (2021), Soul (2020... Read More →
Thursday September 17, 2026 8:30am - 10:00am EDT
National Ballroom
  General Session

10:00am EDT

Networking Area Open
Thursday September 17, 2026 10:00am - 4:30pm EDT
International 2 & 3
Thursday September 17, 2026 10:00am - 4:30pm EDT
International 2 & 3
  Networking Event

10:30am EDT

Networking Break
Thursday September 17, 2026 10:30am - 11:00am EDT
International 2 & 3
These breaks are a great opportunity to recharge and visit the networking booths to see what products and services are available from Conclave sponsors.
Thursday September 17, 2026 10:30am - 11:00am EDT
International 2 & 3
  Networking Event

10:30am EDT

(Un)Natural Beauty: Treatments in Ruby & Sapphire
Thursday September 17, 2026 10:30am - 12:30pm EDT
Royal Dublin A
Space for this Hands-on GIA session is limited to 24 participants and is first-come, first-served.In today’s market, it is increasingly rare to come across ruby and sapphire whose beauty and appeal is entirely due to natural processes. During this hands-on seminar, GIA experts provide an in-depth understanding of various artificial treatments for ruby and sapphire. Through close examination of...
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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 →
Thursday September 17, 2026 10:30am - 12:30pm EDT
Royal Dublin A
  Track, GIA Hands-On

10:30am EDT

Speaking the Pearl Language
Thursday September 17, 2026 10:30am - 12:30pm EDT
Royal Dublin B
Space for this Hands-on GIA session is limited to 24 participants and is first-come, first-served.The pearl market is more complex than ever, making precise terminology essential for protecting both your business and your customers. This session offers a concise look at pearl formation before diving into the core of pearl categorization. Using high-quality images and graphics developed by the GIA...
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Speakers
avatar for Tao Hsu, Ph.D.

Tao Hsu, Ph.D.

Director of Gemology Content and Professional Development, GIA
Dr. Hsu received her PhD degree in geology from University of Southern California. She also earned a Bachelor of Engineering degree in Gemology from China University of Geosciences (Beijing). After joining GIA in 2012, she has been a major contributor to gemology content development... Read More →
avatar for Lisa Kennedy

Lisa Kennedy

Technical Advisor, GIA
Lisa Kennedy is a Technical Advisor for GIA Education, known for her strong scientific foundation and more than a decade of hands-on gemological experience. She began her career in fine jewelry retail before advancing to GIA’s New York laboratory as a Gemologist, where she specialized... Read More →
Thursday September 17, 2026 10:30am - 12:30pm EDT
Royal Dublin B
  Track, GIA Hands-On

11:00am EDT

Featured Speaker: Deanna Marsigliese
Thursday September 17, 2026 11:00am - 12:00pm EDT
International 1
Our Thursday breakfast keynote returns as our featured speaker. Deanna Marsigliese expands on her seven principles of illusion to captivate audiences and unlock the secrets of success.
Speakers
avatar for Deanna Marsigliese

Deanna Marsigliese

Deanna Marsigliese is an Italian-Canadian Art Director, Character Designer and 2D Animator based in San Francisco, CA.

Specializing in storytelling through character design, Marsigliese has worked for Pixar Animation Studios since 2012. Her credits include Luca (2021), Soul (2020... Read More →
Thursday September 17, 2026 11:00am - 12:00pm EDT
International 1
  Featured Speaker

11:00am EDT

AEO Is the New SEO: How AI Bots Are Sending Customers to Your Store Right Now
Thursday September 17, 2026 11:00am - 12:00pm EDT
Augusta A
For years, the game was simple: rank on Google, get clicks, win business. But something fundamental has shifted. Shoppers are now bypassing traditional search and asking ChatGPT, Google Gemini, Perplexity, and Siri what to buy and where to buy it. These AI systems don't return a list of links. They recommend businesses, and they answer with confidence. This session introduces Answer Engine...
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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 →
Thursday September 17, 2026 11:00am - 12:00pm EDT
Augusta A
  Track, Sales and Marketing

11:00am EDT

AWCI Mobile Classroom: Workshop: Cell Replacement, The Right Way
Thursday September 17, 2026 11:00am - 12:00pm EDT
Walkway to Oscola
This class will utilize modern ways to test the cell and movement ensuring a successful service for your customer. Movement cleanliness is a key element to ensure success. Part of this course will be hands-on with movements, tooling 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 →
Thursday September 17, 2026 11:00am - 12:00pm EDT
Walkway to Oscola
  Track, AWCI Hands-On

11:00am EDT

Change is Inevitable. Growth is Optional.
Thursday September 17, 2026 11:00am - 12:00pm EDT
Colonial A
Markets don’t stand still, and neither can your business. From shifting economic conditions and evolving customer demographics to fluctuations in gold, diamond, and fuel prices, today’s retail landscape demands agility and focus. The most successful retailers and vendors aren’t just reacting; they are recalibrating. In this dynamic session, you’ll learn how to realign your strategy around...
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Speakers
avatar for Abe Sherman

Abe Sherman

CEO, Buyers Intelligence Group
Abe Sherman understands the challenges faced by retailers and vendors and is dedicated to consistently improving the jewelry industry. His company BIG, has continually developed new approaches to overcome those challenges.  BIG is comprised of three divisions, Balance to Buy™... Read More →
Thursday September 17, 2026 11:00am - 12:00pm EDT
Colonial A
  Track, Business Management

11:00am EDT

Credentials, Experience & AI: Appraising in Today’s World
Thursday September 17, 2026 11:00am - 12:00pm EDT
Olympic B
Credentials can verify knowledge in a specialized field, and professional growth, experience, and competency are an ongoing journey. With the emergence of AI, appraisal professionals are also navigating new tools and opportunities that are reshaping the profession. As we take a trip down appraisal lane, we will review how appraisal content requirements have evolved and discuss how to create...
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Speakers
MM

Mona Miller

Director, Pacific Gem Lab
Thursday September 17, 2026 11:00am - 12:00pm EDT
Olympic B
  Track, Appraisals

11:00am EDT

Fancy Clarity: For Exceptionally Rare and Desirable Inclusions
Thursday September 17, 2026 11:00am - 12:00pm EDT
Royal Melbourne A
Inclusions and other clarity characteristics in gemstones are typically regarded as undesirable, value-reducing imperfections. However, some rare features can be beautiful and fascinating, such as a dazzling purple garnet crystal in a diamond. Should there be a way to communicate “fancy” clarity features in a gemological report? Help us explore this topic and provide your feedback.
Speakers
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 Jason Quick

Jason Quick

Senior Director of Diamond Cut Research, GIA
Jason Quick is Senior Director of Diamond Cut Research at GIA, where he leads research and development initiatives focused on diamond grading standards, light performance, and cut design. With more than 20 years of leadership in diamond research, he has played a key role in advancing... Read More →
Thursday September 17, 2026 11:00am - 12:00pm EDT
Royal Melbourne A
  Track, GIA Lecture

11:00am EDT

From Overseas to Your Counter: How Tariffs Really Impact Your Jewelry Business
Thursday September 17, 2026 11:00am - 12:00pm EDT
Congressional A
Tariffs aren’t just headlines; they shape what you stock, what you pay, and what your customers see at the counter. This panel brings together wholesalers and retailers to break down how tariffs directly affect every step of the supply chain. From sourcing materials overseas to pricing and profitability in U.S. stores, our panelists will share firsthand insights, real numbers, and practical...
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Speakers
avatar for Anna Samsonova, CG

Anna Samsonova, CG

Owner, Samsonova Consulting

Thursday September 17, 2026 11:00am - 12:00pm EDT
Congressional A
  Track, Business Management

11:00am EDT

Guilds Committee Meeting
Thursday September 17, 2026 11:00am - 12:00pm EDT
Royal Melbourne B
Thursday September 17, 2026 11:00am - 12:00pm EDT
Royal Melbourne B
  Track, Committee Meeting

11:00am EDT

If You’re Not Having Fun, You’re Doing It Wrong
Thursday September 17, 2026 11:00am - 12:00pm EDT
Augusta B
What happens when a father, a wholesaler daughter, and a retail son show how having fun grows both joy and sales? This high-energy, honest, and entertaining session pulls back the curtain on what really keeps people thriving (and laughing) in the jewelry business. From the retail floor to the wholesale side, this family shares real stories, hard lessons, and simple mindset shifts that will get you...
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Speakers
JS

Jim Siegel, CGA

Retail store owner, Siegel Jewelers

avatar for Aleah Arundale

Aleah Arundale

Fun coach, Jewelers Helping Jewelers
Some might consider selling diamonds a skill or even an art form. For Aleah, it’s more like a natural instinct. Aleah Arundale is a 3rd generation GIA Graduate Gemologist, and a 5th generation jeweler turned loose diamond wholesaler. Selling diamonds on the road taught her endless... Read More →
JS
Thursday September 17, 2026 11:00am - 12:00pm EDT
Augusta B
  Track, Sales and Marketing

11:00am EDT

Old School Selling in a New School World
Thursday September 17, 2026 11:00am - 12:00pm EDT
Congressional B
Adam Graham, RS, will lead this panel in a discussion of how successful salespeople continue to use classical selling techniques in conjunction with new tools and technologies. We will explore how they have been able to adapt to new forms of communication and sales presentations while maintaining their tried-and-true techniques in building relationships with their clientele.
Speakers
avatar for Adam Graham, RS

Adam Graham, RS

Director of Sales West, Joshua J Fine Jewelry
Adam Graham, RS, is the Western Sales Director for Joshua J Fine Jewelry. In his long jewelry career, he has held executive roles with some of the industry’s best-known companies, including Omi Gems, Erica Courtney, AGTA, Saks Fifth Avenue, Rapaport, and AGS. He has presented sessions... Read More →
Thursday September 17, 2026 11:00am - 12:00pm EDT
Congressional B
  Track, Sales and Marketing

11:00am EDT

The Edge User Group: Recent Enhancements, Real-World Use, and What’s Coming Next
Thursday September 17, 2026 11:00am - 12:00pm EDT
Colonial B
This interactive Edge User Group session is designed for retailers who want to better understand recent enhancements to The Edge and how they can be applied effectively in day-to-day store operations. We’ll review key features and improvements released from early 2025 through Conclave 2026, focusing on real-world workflows such as inventory accuracy, purchasing, receiving, reporting, and...
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Speakers
avatar for Lenny Prion

Lenny Prion

Director of Operations and Education, The Edge

The EdgeLenny Prion is a seasoned professional with extensive experience in the retail jewelry industry. For more than 20 years, Lenny has served as Director of Operations and Education for The Edge, helping jewelry retailers improve operations, inventory management, customer eng... Read More →
Thursday September 17, 2026 11:00am - 12:00pm EDT
Colonial B
  Track, Business Management

12:00pm EDT

Networking Break
Thursday September 17, 2026 12:00pm - 12:30pm EDT
International 2 & 3
These breaks are a great opportunity to recharge and visit the networking booths to see what products and services are available from Conclave sponsors.
Thursday September 17, 2026 12:00pm - 12:30pm EDT
International 2 & 3
  Networking Event

12:30pm EDT

Lunch Buffet Open
Thursday September 17, 2026 12:30pm - 2:30pm EDT
National Ballroom
Thursday September 17, 2026 12:30pm - 2:30pm EDT
National Ballroom

1:00pm EDT

Titleholders Luncheon
Thursday September 17, 2026 1:00pm - 2:30pm EDT
National Ballroom
Join us in recognizing our new and milestone credentialed members of the Society at the annual Titleholders Luncheon! AGS credentials set members apart by demonstrating their commitment to continuing education and superior business ethics. We will also present the Young Titleholder of the Year award, a prestigious honor for one of the Society’s emerging leaders. As a special treat, enjoy a...
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Speakers
avatar for David Kwong

David Kwong

As a magician and New York Times crossword puzzle constructor, David Kwong has delighted and confounded audiences worldwide. A TED Talk favorite, Kwong regularly speaks to companies and demonstrates the principles of illusion and the science of why your brain is fooled.

Kwong was the head magic consultant for the worldwide hit Now You See Me. Kwong’s one-man show, The Enigmatist, has sold out runs in New York, Los Angeles, Chicago and the Kennedy Center in Washington, DC. His interactive puzzle show, Inside the Box, also garnered a Critic’s Pick... Read More →
Thursday September 17, 2026 1:00pm - 2:30pm EDT
National Ballroom
  General Session

2:30pm EDT

Coffee and Dessert Break
Thursday September 17, 2026 2:30pm - 3:00pm EDT
International 2 & 3
Java time! Head to the Networking Area, where you can enjoy dessert, meet friends (old and new), and visit the networking booths. It’s a short but sweet opportunity to relax before your next session begins.

Coffee and Dessert Breaks are sponsored by:
Thursday September 17, 2026 2:30pm - 3:00pm EDT
International 2 & 3
  Networking Event

3:00pm EDT

Featured Speaker: David Kwong
Thursday September 17, 2026 3:00pm - 4:00pm EDT
International 1
Speakers
avatar for David Kwong

David Kwong

As a magician and New York Times crossword puzzle constructor, David Kwong has delighted and confounded audiences worldwide. A TED Talk favorite, Kwong regularly speaks to companies and demonstrates the principles of illusion and the science of why your brain is fooled.

Kwong was the head magic consultant for the worldwide hit Now You See Me. Kwong’s one-man show, The Enigmatist, has sold out runs in New York, Los Angeles, Chicago and the Kennedy Center in Washington, DC. His interactive puzzle show, Inside the Box, also garnered a Critic’s Pick... Read More →
Thursday September 17, 2026 3:00pm - 4:00pm EDT
International 1
  Featured Speaker

3:00pm EDT

AWCI Mobile Classroom: Workshop: Water Resistance: Wet and Dry Methods
Thursday September 17, 2026 3:00pm - 4:00pm EDT
Walkway to Oscola
Not only will the testers be demonstrated, but each participant will go hands-on with each machine. This training even includes programming these devices for their optimal use. Guidelines for testing will be discussed and specification charts will be handed out. Cases will be prepared for random testing. This is a hands-on workshop and tooling will be provided.
Speakers
JZ

Jason Ziegenbein

Lead Watch Educator, AWCI
Thursday September 17, 2026 3:00pm - 4:00pm EDT
Walkway to Oscola
  Track, AWCI Hands-On

3:00pm EDT

Communication in the Jewelry Appraisal Process: Soft Skills for Difficult Conversations
Thursday September 17, 2026 3:00pm - 4:00pm EDT
Congressional A
The initial consultation with an appraisal client can present both challenges and opportunities for an appraiser. In this session you'll hear from a panel of appraisers from different business types and experience levels about some common real-world situations and how they've crafted conversations and questions for their clients.
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 →
Panelists
avatar for Andrea Venn, Ph.D., CGA, JEA

Andrea Venn, Ph.D., CGA, JEA

Education Program Specialist, AGS


MW

Mike West, ACGA

Gemologist-Appraiser, RF Moeller Jeweler

avatar for Randall Lightfoot, CG, JEA

Randall Lightfoot, CG, JEA

Gemologist-Appraiser, Mayflower Estate Buyers & Consulting

Randy Lightfoot earned his B.A. in the Geological Sciences from Augustana College, Rock Island, IL in 2013 with an emphasis on volcanology, igneous petrology and mineralogy.  Mr. Lightfoot’s career has been spent largely studying the use of standard screening methods to identify... Read More →
Thursday September 17, 2026 3:00pm - 4:00pm EDT
Congressional A
  Track, Appraisals

3:00pm EDT

Coordinating Your Store's Display and Sales Strategies to Make Your Staff More Effective
Thursday September 17, 2026 3:00pm - 4:00pm EDT
Augusta B
Too often, the jewelry retailer lacks a strategy for how to arrange the merchandise in a showcase to grow sales. Often the layout does not feature the pieces in the showcase the owner wants most to sell. Often, the displays in a showcase are not arranged in a logical manner that matches the linear process of the salesperson’s presentation. The result is an overwhelmed or confused customer that...
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Speakers
avatar for Larry Johnson

Larry Johnson

CEO, Larry Johnson Consulting Services
Larry is the CEO of Larry Johnson Consulting Services, a Dallas, Texas-based firm that works with independent jewelry retailers around the world to grow their sales by the improvement of their merchandises’ visual presentation.
He holds multiple US patents for his jewelry display and jewelry packaging inventions. He is the author of “The complete guide to effective jewelry display” which serves as a textbook for VM classes. Earlier in his career, he has served as CEO of Chippenhook and Coastal Display... Read More →
Thursday September 17, 2026 3:00pm - 4:00pm EDT
Augusta B
  Track, Sales and Marketing

3:00pm EDT

Education Committee Meeting
Thursday September 17, 2026 3:00pm - 4:00pm EDT
Royal Melbourne B
Thursday September 17, 2026 3:00pm - 4:00pm EDT
Royal Melbourne B
  Track, Committee Meeting

3:00pm EDT

From Instinct to Intelligence: Building a Data-Driven Culture in Your Jewelry Business
Thursday September 17, 2026 3:00pm - 4:00pm EDT
Colonial A
Most jewelers built their businesses on relationships, taste, and instinct, and those things still matter enormously. But in a market where margins are tighter and competition is broader than ever, instinct alone isn't enough. The retailers growing right now are the ones pairing their expertise with data. In this session, Elle Hill shows jewelers how to build a culture of smarter decision-making...
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Speakers
avatar for Elle Hill

Elle Hill

Founder & CEO, Hill & Co.
Elle is a renowned entrepreneur and lauded expert in the diamond, gemstone and jewelry industry. Her 28 years of achievements include helping businesses large and small to succeed—from launching her own award-winning international designer jewelry retailer, which she brought public... Read More →
Thursday September 17, 2026 3:00pm - 4:00pm EDT
Colonial A
  Track, Business Management

3:00pm EDT

Luminescence – A Hugely Underrated Physical Property in Gem Testing
Thursday September 17, 2026 3:00pm - 4:00pm EDT
Olympic A
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...
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Speakers
avatar for Thomas Hainschwang

Thomas Hainschwang

CEO, GGTL Laboratories
I am Director and co-founder of GGTL Laboratories (GGTL Laboratories Liechtenstein). I have founded Gemlab (Liechtenstein) in 1996 and have joined a very close collaboration with GemTechLab in Geneva in 2011, through which GGTL Laboratories emerged, with the three member labs in Liechtenstein... Read More →
Thursday September 17, 2026 3:00pm - 4:00pm EDT
Olympic A
  Track, Gems Jewelry and Watches

3:00pm EDT

Metals Market Outlook – Trends, Turbulence & Opportunities
Thursday September 17, 2026 3:00pm - 4:00pm EDT
Colonial B
In an era of unprecedented volatility, understanding precious metal markets is more critical than ever for jewelry professionals. This session will deliver a clear, data-driven outlook on platinum, gold, and other key metals, exploring how macroeconomic forces, geopolitical tensions, tariffs, and supply constraints are shaping pricing today—and what to expect tomorrow. Attendees will gain...
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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 →
Thursday September 17, 2026 3:00pm - 4:00pm EDT
Colonial B
  Track, Business Management

3:00pm EDT

Not All AI is Created Equal
Thursday September 17, 2026 3:00pm - 4:00pm EDT
Augusta A
With so many AI tools available, choosing the right one can feel overwhelming. From ChatGPT to Claude to Gemini, each platform offers different strengths—and selecting the wrong tool can lead to wasted time, poor results, or unnecessary cost. In this session, we’ll break down the key differences between leading AI platforms and explore how they perform across common business use cases like...
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Speakers
JF

Jordan Freeman

COO, BOSS Logics
Thursday September 17, 2026 3:00pm - 4:00pm EDT
Augusta A
  Track, Business Management

3:00pm EDT

Sculptures of Light: The Artistry of Contrast in Fancy-Shaped Diamonds
Thursday September 17, 2026 3:00pm - 4:00pm EDT
Royal Melbourne A
Sculptures of Light: The Artistry of Contrast explores the role of dark zone features in fancy-shaped diamonds and their influence on Visual Performance. Often misunderstood, contrast features are an impactful component of how diamonds create pattern and visual character. Through guided education, comparative analysis, and real-world examples, this presentation examines the wide range of dark-zone...
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Speakers
avatar for Amanda Hawkes, CG

Amanda Hawkes, CG

Research Support Manager, GIA
Amanda Hawkes, GG, is the Research Support Manager for GIA’s Cut Grade Research Team. She began her gemological career at AGS Laboratories in 2011, where she held a variety of diamond grading and leadership roles, including Laboratory Grading Manager, before joining GIA in 2022... Read More →
avatar for Lisa Kennedy

Lisa Kennedy

Technical Advisor, GIA
Lisa Kennedy is a Technical Advisor for GIA Education, known for her strong scientific foundation and more than a decade of hands-on gemological experience. She began her career in fine jewelry retail before advancing to GIA’s New York laboratory as a Gemologist, where she specialized... Read More →
Thursday September 17, 2026 3:00pm - 4:00pm EDT
Royal Melbourne A
  Track, GIA Lecture

3:00pm EDT

Underappreciated Gemstones
Thursday September 17, 2026 3:00pm - 4:00pm EDT
Olympic B
Not all jewels are as popular as diamond, ruby, sapphire, and emerald; some are a bit underappreciated. But that doesn’t make them any less spectacular. While these gemstones have been gaining recognition in recent years, there's even more to them than meets the eye. Learn about the lore, history, and science that make peridot, garnet, tourmaline, zircon, and spinel unique.
Speakers
avatar for Isabelle Corvin, CG

Isabelle Corvin, CG

Gemologist and Merchandising Manager, Panowicz Jewelers
Gemologist, merchandising manager, writer, and more, I have a passion for the history, lore and science behind gemstones, and a love for the world beneath a microscope. In 2022, I was honored to be named one of Jewelers of America inaugural class of "20 under 40" and this year, 2026... Read More →
Thursday September 17, 2026 3:00pm - 4:00pm EDT
Olympic B
  Track, Gems Jewelry and Watches

3:00pm EDT

Women in Leadership: The Real Balancing Act Without Burnout
Thursday September 17, 2026 3:00pm - 4:00pm EDT
Congressional B
This candid conversation brings together powerhouse women leaders at every stage of their careers to talk honestly about what it really takes to lead without burning out. From boardrooms to caregiving, from scaling businesses to managing personal health, this session opens up the rarely discussed realities shaping women’s lives today. Topics include stress management, boundaries, perimenopause...
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Speakers
avatar for Jen Cullen Williams

Jen Cullen Williams

Founder, Jen Cullen Williams Communications
Jen Cullen Williams is an award-winning communications consultant recognized for her expertise in retail and marketing trends and her ability to connect businesses with media and consumers to drive visibility and growth. Since launching her career in 2006 in PR agencies, and later... Read More →
Thursday September 17, 2026 3:00pm - 4:00pm EDT
Congressional B
  Track, Sales and Marketing

4:00pm EDT

Networking Break
Thursday September 17, 2026 4:00pm - 4:30pm EDT
International 2 & 3
These breaks are a great opportunity to recharge and visit the networking booths to see what products and services are available from Conclave sponsors.
Thursday September 17, 2026 4:00pm - 4:30pm EDT
International 2 & 3
  Networking Event

4:30pm EDT

AI in Action: Solving Real Business Problems—Together
Thursday September 17, 2026 4:30pm - 5:30pm EDT
Augusta A
AI isn’t just about tools—it’s about solving real business problems. In this interactive, workshop-style session, we’ll move beyond theory and into practical application. I’ll start by sharing a curated set of AI tools and real-world examples to spark new ways of thinking. Then, we’ll shift into a collaborative working session where participants bring their own challenges—whether...
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Speakers
JF

Jordan Freeman

COO, BOSS Logics
Thursday September 17, 2026 4:30pm - 5:30pm EDT
Augusta A
  Track, Business Management

4:30pm EDT

Colored Stone Treatments in the 21st Century
Thursday September 17, 2026 4:30pm - 5:30pm EDT
Royal Melbourne A
Untreated vs treated gemstones have very different market values, which require the disclosure of treatments to be crucial. From initial discovery to showcasing the treatment's overall effect, this presentation will explore some of the most significant treatments introduced into the market in the 21st century. Gemstone treatments are not going away, which means educating oneself on them is an...
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Speakers
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 →
Thursday September 17, 2026 4:30pm - 5:30pm EDT
Royal Melbourne A
  Track, GIA Lecture

4:30pm EDT

Finish Well: How to Build a Jewelry Business Someone Actually Wants to Buy
Thursday September 17, 2026 4:30pm - 5:30pm EDT
Colonial B
Whether you plan to sell, pass it to your children, or simply want the decades you have invested to mean something beyond your last day behind the counter, this session is for you. Many jewelers build genuinely successful businesses and still have nothing structured to show for it at exit. Not because they failed, but because success alone does not create a transferable legacy. This session covers...
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Speakers
avatar for Mariel Diaz

Mariel Diaz

Founder & Strategic Originator, Accounting for Jewelers
Mariel Diaz founded Accounting for Jewelers in 2013 to provide accounting services to jewelry businesses in the US. Mariel oversees operations and is a trusted advisor to jewelry business owners. She is a 2nd generation jeweler and was previously a GIA Graduate Gemologist, JA Certified... Read More →
Thursday September 17, 2026 4:30pm - 5:30pm EDT
Colonial B
  Track, Business Management

4:30pm EDT

From GG to Appraiser: Bridging the Gap Between Gemology & Appraising
Thursday September 17, 2026 4:30pm - 5:30pm EDT
Olympic B
It's one thing to earn your Graduate Gemologist® (GG) diploma from GIA, but having your GG does not automatically qualify you as an appraiser of gems and jewelry. For decades, the jewelry industry has been complacent by allowing professionals who only hold their GG to sign off on valuation documents, calling themselves appraisers. While earning the GG diploma is critical and no easy feat, Mike...
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Speakers
avatar for Randall Lightfoot, CG, JEA

Randall Lightfoot, CG, JEA

Gemologist-Appraiser, Mayflower Estate Buyers & Consulting

Randy Lightfoot earned his B.A. in the Geological Sciences from Augustana College, Rock Island, IL in 2013 with an emphasis on volcanology, igneous petrology and mineralogy.  Mr. Lightfoot’s career has been spent largely studying the use of standard screening methods to identify... Read More →
MW

Mike West, ACGA

Gemologist-Appraiser, RF Moeller Jeweler

Thursday September 17, 2026 4:30pm - 5:30pm EDT
Olympic B
  Track, Appraisals

4:30pm EDT

How to Boss 2.0
Thursday September 17, 2026 4:30pm - 5:30pm EDT
Congressional A
The best leaders evolve. We know that leadership demands adaptability, emotional intelligence, strategic thinking, and the ability to inspire others. But we've also learned some things in the last few years, so we're taking a crack at this again to open up a conversation about what it's like to lead a company through massive change. “How to Boss 2.0” brings together a dynamic panel of leaders...
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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 →
Panelists
LB
avatar for Monica Stephenson

Monica Stephenson

President, ANZA Gems

Thursday September 17, 2026 4:30pm - 5:30pm EDT
Congressional A
  Track, Business Management

4:30pm EDT

Selling With Purpose: Controlling the Narrative at the Counter
Thursday September 17, 2026 4:30pm - 5:30pm EDT
Augusta B
We went to school. We received gemological teaching and training. We might even fancy ourselves as well-read. But how do we take all that learning and all that experience and move a client from "just looking" to "I must have it"—and have it from you, an AGS store? I'll cover that and more, as you begin the path to "That's right—I'll take it."
Speakers
avatar for David Mazer, CG

David Mazer, CG

Director, Marks Jewelers
I am a 4th generation Jeweler, a Registered Jeweler and Certified Gemologist with the AGS, a Graduate Gemologist earned in residence from the GIA, and a personal property Appraiser specializing in diamonds, jewelry, and fine watches. My experience has privileged me to represent American... Read More →
Thursday September 17, 2026 4:30pm - 5:30pm EDT
Augusta B
  Track, Sales and Marketing

4:30pm EDT

Take-in Pointers for Front of Store Watch Repair Take-in
Thursday September 17, 2026 4:30pm - 5:30pm EDT
Congressional B
Successful watch repair begins at the front counter. Join AWCI for an in-depth discussion on best practices for watch take-in at the retail counter. Learn how to effectively communicate with customers, gather critical information, and serve as a knowledgeable liaison between the client and the watchmaker. In this workshop, we’ll share the practical strategies we've developed for communicating...
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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
Thursday September 17, 2026 4:30pm - 5:30pm EDT
Congressional B
  Track, Gems Jewelry and Watches

4:30pm EDT

The Making of a Collector
Thursday September 17, 2026 4:30pm - 5:30pm EDT
Olympic A
Join Robert Weldon and Shelly Sergent as they share the stories of curating and photographing pieces from the acclaimed Somewhere In The Rainbow Collection and how this important educational collection has become the basis for museum and gemological exhibitions around the country. An open dialogue regarding the curatorial process and the tricks of Robert's award-winning photography of these gems,...
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Speakers
avatar for Shelly Sergent

Shelly Sergent

Curator of Collection, Somewhere In The Rainbow Collection
Somewhere In The Rainbow specializes in colored gemstones, handcrafted designer jewels, the American Innovator time period, museum exhibitions, and the collection of colored gems. Feel free to talk to me about anything colorful, masterful, and fun! I've spent 44 years in the industry... Read More →
Thursday September 17, 2026 4:30pm - 5:30pm EDT
Olympic A
  Track, Gems Jewelry and Watches

7:00pm EDT

President's Party
Thursday September 17, 2026 7:00pm - 9:30pm EDT
National Ballroom
This is how Conclave ends—great food, an open bar, and live entertainment that’ll have you begging for just one more song. Dress as your favorite Disney or Universal character and make it your moment to get creative, snap plenty of photos, and celebrate the magic of your AGS community. Whether you’re dancing, chatting, or just soaking in the fun, the President’s Party is the perfect way to...
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Thursday September 17, 2026 7:00pm - 9:30pm EDT
National Ballroom
  Networking Event
 

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