Conclave 2026: Full Schedule

9:00am EDT

Future-Proofing Your Jewelry Business: Lessons from the 20 Under 40

Tuesday September 15, 2026 9:00am - 10:00am EDT

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

Amanda Gizzi

Senior Vice President of Corporate Affairs, Jewelers of America

Amanda Gizzi is the Senior Vice President of Corporate Affairs for Jewelers of America (JA), a nonprofit trade association that has been serving the fine jewelry marketplace since 1906. With 25 years of industry experience, Gizzi brings a deep passion and unwavering commitment to... Read More →

Panelists

Baileigh Daoud-Soricelli

Managing Partner and Director of Marketing, Daoud's Fine Jewelry

Baileigh Daoud-Soricelli is a fifth-generation jeweler and managing partner of her family's 131-year legacy at Daoud's Fine Jewelry, where she leads both sales and marketing. Raised in a tradition rooted in trust, expertise, and exceptional value, she has developed a discerning eye... Read More →

Sarah M. Haugaard

Co Founder/Co Creative Director, Lionheart

Co-Founder and Co-Creative Director of Lionheart, a New York City–based fine jewelry brand. Oversees the brand’s creative vision, shaping its storytelling, identity, and customer experience, while working closely with Joy Haugaard who designs each collection. Passionate about... Read More →

Sarah Martin Rowe

Founder & Designer, The Leake Co.

Sarah Rowe is the founder and designer of The Leake Co., a private jewelry studio located in Louisville, KY and defined by its intimate, client-led approach. Independently launched in 2020, The Leake Co. is the culmination of a 12-year career spanning independent retail, wholesale... Read More →

Tony Maggio III

Owner, Reflections in Gold

I was born in New York and raised in sunny Venice, Florida. As a third-generation jeweler, I grew up in the jewelry industry after my grandparents founded Reflections in Gold more than 45 years ago. I credit much of my knowledge to the lessons they taught him, along with the invaluable... Read More →

Tuesday September 15, 2026 9:00am - 10:00am EDT
Congressional A

Track, Business Management

Level Intermediate
Session Format Panel Discussion
Audience Retailers, Vendors

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 session will explore how to effectively connect with the next generation of buyers. Panelists will share real-world insights on communication styles, digital touchpoints, and what builds trust (or breaks it) during the sales journey. If you want to stay relevant and competitive, this session offers a clear, unfiltered look at how Gen Z expects to shop and how you can meet them there.

Speakers

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 →

Panelists

Courtney Sivard

B.C. Clark, Inc.

Courtney is the Director of Marketing at BC Clark Jewelers, where she leads the company's brand strategy, advertising, digital marketing, eCommerce, and customer engagement initiatives. An AGS Certified Sales Associate and JA Certified Management Professional, she is passionate about... Read More →

Sophie Broussard

Sales Specialist, Dianna Rae Jewelry

Sophie is a sales specialist at Dianna Rae Jewelry focusing on custom design, diamond education, and restyling. She is an advocate for relational selling that creates long-lasting relationships and establishes ongoing open communication between client and salesperson. She prioritizes... Read More →

Tuesday September 15, 2026 10:30am - 11:30am EDT
Congressional A

Track, Sales and Marketing

Level Intermediate
Session Format Panel Discussion
Audience Retailers, Appraisers, Vendors

2:30pm EDT

AGS Partner Members 101: Making Your Membership Work for You

Tuesday September 15, 2026 2:30pm - 3:30pm EDT

Congressional B

In this panel, a team of accomplished Partner members (and a retailer) share how they've built strategic relationships with retail members and turned their benefits into real business results. You'll hear how they've maximized the marketing opportunities included in their dues, utilized the educational opportunities offered by AGS to better their own business, made the most of networking events, put member tools to work, and formed alliances with fellow Partner members that benefit everyone involved. You'll leave knowing what AGS brings to the table and how putting it to work makes you a stronger business as well as a stronger partner.
Suppliers, designers, service providers, emerging designers and retailers are welcomed to attend. Retailers: this is a great session to learn how to better utilize your AGS partner members.

Speakers

Brecken Farnsworth, CG

Vice President, Parlé Jewelry Designs

Panelists

Lika Behar

Owner/Designer, Lika Behar Collection

Mitchell Clark

President, BC Clark, Inc.

Mitchell Clark, CG, is the President of BC Clark Jewelers, a fourth-generation family business with three retail stores in Oklahoma City. Mitchell currently serves as President-Elect of the AGS International Board of Directors. In 2026, Mitchell and his brother Coleman were inducted... Read More →

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 →

Tuesday September 15, 2026 2:30pm - 3:30pm EDT
Congressional B

Track, Committee Meeting

Session Format Panel Discussion

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 the reality that not every 3X or AGS 0 qualifies, and how lower rough yield and selective production contribute to value.

This is not a product presentation. It is a practical discussion about selling differently, where emotion remains central but is reinforced with proof, and where transparency, scarcity, and experience come together to create something truly special for today’s consumer.

Speakers

Moshe Klein

Chief Executive Officer, Grandview Klein Diamonds

Panelists

Mahiar Borhanjoo

Chief Commercial Officer (SVP Polished Division), De Beers Group

Mahiar Borhanjoo is the Chief Commercial Officer (SVP of the Polished
Division) at De Beers Group. With over 20 years of global leadership
across luxury, technology, and financial services, he has led transformative
initiatives in the diamond industry.

At De Beers, he headed... Read More →

Tuesday September 15, 2026 2:30pm - 3:30pm EDT
Congressional A

Track, Sales and Marketing

Level Intermediate
Session Format Panel Discussion
Audience Retailers, Vendors

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 stay top of mind, without requiring large budgets. Learn how to create authentic moments that reflect your brand, deepen relationships, and turn storytelling into a powerful business driver.

Speakers

Anna Samsonova, CG

Owner, Samsonova Consulting

Anna Samsonova, CG, is a Chicago, IL–based jewelry consultant and industry leader with more than 20 years of luxury experience working with retail and wholesale companies across sales, merchandising, buying, branding, event marketing, and operations. She is the founder of Samsonova... Read More →

Panelists

Fanya Hull

Owner, Vardy's Jewelers, Inc.

I have over two decades of experience in the jewelry business and is a GIA Accredited Jewelry Professional. I have leveraged my Bachelors degree in International Business and Finance from Loyola Marymount University to secure the best prices my customers, as Vardy’s sources the... Read More →

Jen Cullen Williams

Founder, Jen Cullen Williams Communications

Trisha Kennedy-Thompson

Co-Owner, Kennedy's Custom Jewelers

Trisha Kennedy-Thompson is co-owner of Kennedy's Custom Jewelers, which she and her brother purchased from their father in 2021. Since taking over the business they have more than doubled business. She is a graduate gemologist and AGS Certified Gemologist. She is also an award-winning... Read More →

Tuesday September 15, 2026 4:00pm - 5:00pm EDT
Congressional A

Track, Sales and Marketing

Level Beginner
Session Format Panel Discussion
Audience Retailers, Vendors

4:00pm EDT

Increasing Watch Repair Capacity & Profits

Tuesday September 15, 2026 4:00pm - 5:00pm EDT

Congressional B

Whether you're managing an in-house watchmaker, working with outside service providers, or looking to expand an existing department, this session explores practical ways to increase repair capacity while improving efficiency and profitability. In this session, we'll explore proven strategies for increasing repair capacity, improving workflow, reducing turnaround times, and growing profitability without sacrificing quality or customer satisfaction. From staffing and equipment decisions to pricing, outsourcing, inventory, and process improvements, we'll examine the key factors that influence both productivity and profit. Whether your store performs simple battery replacements or employs a full-service watchmaker, you'll gain practical ideas for expanding your capabilities, serving more customers, and turning your watch department into a stronger contributor to your business.

Speakers

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 →

Jason Ziegenbein

Lead Watch Educator, AWCI

Jason Ziegenbein is the Watchmaking Instructor for the American Watchmakers-Clockmakers Institute (AWCI) located in Harrison Ohio. Jason previously served as the Lead Instructor for the School of Watchmaking at Oklahoma State University Institute of Technology. He holds an AAS degree... Read More →

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 →

Tuesday September 15, 2026 4:00pm - 5:00pm EDT
Congressional B

Track, Gems Jewelry and Watches

Level Beginner
Session Format Panel Discussion
Audience Retailers, Vendors

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

Rebecca Boyajian

GIA

Rebecca Boyajian, GIA GG, AGS CG, is an opportunity focused brand ambassador, speaker, and relationship builder with 20 years’ experience in the luxury fashion and fine jewelry industries. Working for companies such as Roberto Coin, Bloomingdales, and Neiman Marcus, Boyajian lead... Read More →

Panelists

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 →

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 →

Wednesday September 16, 2026 10:15am - 11:15am EDT
Congressional B

Track, Sales and Marketing

Level Intermediate
Session Format Panel Discussion
Audience Retailers, Appraisers, Vendors

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 partners are shaping the future. (Panelists representing jewelry schools/academic institutions/industry organizations)
Key Discussion Points:
• The importance of platinum-specific training in today’s market
• Gaps in current education and how to address them
• Real-world examples of industry-education collaboration
• How mentorship and hands-on experience shape career readiness

Speakers

Jenny Luker

President, Platinum Guild International USA

Panelists

Jennifer Markas

Head of Industry Relations & Impact Fund, Jewelers Mutual Group

Jewelers Mutual is excited to champion the next generation of bench jewelers through its investment in the Savannah College of Art & Design. Ask me how I can help you recruit and hire talented bench jewelers with a passion for craftsmanship!

Joanna Joy Seetoo

Director of Marketing, Education Foundation, MJSA

Joanna Joy Seetoo is an award-winning fine jewelry designer, consultant, and educator with over two decades in the industry, spanning design, goldsmithing, and jewelry education. She holds a GIA AJP and CCC as well as the Revere Academy of Jewelry Arts Graduate Jeweler credentials... Read More →

Ross Wesdorp

Co-Owner, Sr. Director of Sales and Service, Jewel Craft, Inc.

Ross Wesdorp is the Co-Owner and Senior Director of Sales at Jewel-Craft Inc., a fourth-generation family business founded in 1947. Beginning his career at age 13 as a bench jeweler and in shipping, Ross developed a lifelong passion for the jewelry trade. He further honed his expertise... Read More →

Wednesday September 16, 2026 10:15am - 11:15am EDT
Congressional A

Track, Gems Jewelry and Watches

Level Beginner
Session Format Panel Discussion
Audience Retailers, Appraisers, Vendors

11:45am EDT

Future Legends

Wednesday September 16, 2026 11:45am - 12:45pm EDT

Congressional A

[]

Panelists

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 →

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 →

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 →

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 →

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

Level Beginner
Session Format Panel Discussion
Audience Retailers, Appraisers, Vendors

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 session, we break down how top-performing retailers position natural diamonds for maximum emotional connection, engineer in-store experiences that accelerate buying decisions, and implement precision inventory and pricing tactics that keep stones turning at remarkable speed. The result? Higher average tickets, stronger margins, and clients who say “yes” faster and more often. Total natural diamond domination!

Speakers

Jessica Gylsen

Vice President, XL Diamonds

Panelists

Brian Toone

Jewelry Design Center

Jessica Harminson-Olson

Owner, Maxon Fine Jewelry

Mitchell Clark

President, BC Clark, Inc.

Wednesday September 16, 2026 11:45am - 12:45pm EDT
Congressional B

Track, Sales and Marketing

Level Beginner
Session Format Panel Discussion
Audience Retailers

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 like in real life. We’ll talk about how real stories and transparent sourcing build trust, long-term loyalty, and measurable economic value for businesses and mining communities alike.

Speakers

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 →

Panelists

Emily Phillippy

Emily Chelsea

Monica Stephenson

President, ANZA Gems

After 25+ years in jewelry, I am (still) endlessly curious about the people involved in our beautiful jewelry industry, and constantly working on how to support artisans throughout our supply chain. I’m mostly happy to talk about gemstones and the people and places they are from... Read More →

Wednesday September 16, 2026 3:00pm - 4:00pm EDT
Congressional B

Track, Business Management

Level Intermediate
Session Format Panel Discussion
Audience Retailers, Vendors

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 retailers. We’ll separate noise from opportunity, trends from truths, and short-term challenges from long-term strategy. Most importantly, we’ll talk about how strong brands continue to win—by staying agile, authentic, and focused on value beyond the product itself. Insightful, practical, and refreshingly candid, this is a conversation about navigating change without losing authenticity.

Speakers

Jodi Riesenberg

EVP TACORI, TACORI

Panelists

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 →

Lana Boutros

Tacori

Nadine Tacorian

Tacori

Paul Tacorian

Tacori

Paul Tacorian has spent more than two decades building one of America's most recognized fine jewelry brands. As CEO, he leads TACORI's West Coast Jewelry Studio in Glendale, California, where every piece is still made by hand by artisans who have shaped the brand's standard of craft... Read More →

Wednesday September 16, 2026 3:00pm - 4:00pm EDT
Congressional A

Track, Sales and Marketing

Level Intermediate
Session Format Panel Discussion
Audience Retailers

4:30pm EDT

From Zero to Watch Repair: Building a Successful Watch Repair Department

Wednesday September 16, 2026 4:30pm - 5:30pm EDT

Congressional B

Thinking about adding watch repair to your store but not sure where to start? Whether you're considering offering basic battery changes and bracelet adjustments or envisioning a full-service watch department, this session will walk you through the process of building a successful watch repair program from the ground up. We'll compare the different business models available, from outsourcing all repairs to operating a full-service in-house watch department, and discuss the costs, staffing, equipment, challenges, and opportunities associated with each. You'll also learn how to create efficient workflows, develop a positive customer experience, and identify opportunities to grow watch service into a profitable part of your business. Whether you're just beginning to explore the idea or looking to expand your existing capabilities, you'll leave with practical strategies and a clear roadmap for bringing professional watch service to your store.

Speakers

Jason Champion

Education Director, AWCI

Jason Ziegenbein

Lead Watch Educator, AWCI

Justin Shiver, RJ

Watchmaker, Underwood Jewelers

Wednesday September 16, 2026 4:30pm - 5:30pm EDT
Congressional B

Track, Gems Jewelry and Watches

Level Beginner
Session Format Panel Discussion
Audience Retailers

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 strategies for navigating today’s shifting trade landscape. Whether you buy, sell, or design, this discussion connects global policy to everyday business decisions.

Speakers

Anna Samsonova, CG

Owner, Samsonova Consulting

Panelists

Adam Funk

Owner, Diamonds & Gold

Native to Green Bay, Adam lives on the west side with his two sons Wyatt, and Evan and puppy Enzo. Adam is very involved in the local community, and he has worked in the jewelry industry since 2000. He is a GIA Graduate Gemologist as well as a Certified Gemological Appraiser with... Read More →

Joshua Israileff, RS

Co-Owner, ASBA USA

Joshua attended DePaul University where he graduated with degrees in Finance, Marketing, and Economics. Post-graduation he worked at UBS Financial before joining ASBA USA, the family business. He has received accreditation from the GIA, AGS, as well as the CPAA. He now does speaking... Read More →

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 →

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

Track, Business Management

Level Beginner
Session Format Panel Discussion
Audience Retailers, Vendors

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

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 →

Panelists

Kristin Milne, G.G.

Business Manager-Bridal, Estate Buys & Appraisals, CD Peacock

Kristin has worked for CD Peacock for the last ten years in various roles. She is a Graduate Gemologist and the Manager of the bridal business and conducts the estate jewelry buys for the company. She is also an accredited appraiser of jewelry and a member of the International Society... Read More →

Maria Brown

Vice President-Owner, Exclusively Diamonds

Michael Schechter

Head of Customer Success, Joshua J Fine Jewelry

Michael Schechter is a third-generation jeweler who has spent over 25 years working at the crossroads of fine jewelry and modern technology, helping brands and retailers alike to optimize their digital experience. He currently works as the Head of Customer Success for Joshua J, a... Read More →

Thursday September 17, 2026 11:00am - 12:00pm EDT
Congressional B

Track, Sales and Marketing

Level Intermediate
Session Format Panel Discussion
Audience Retailers

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

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

Andrea Venn, Ph.D., CGA, JEA

Education Program Specialist, AGS

Andrea began working in the gemstone and jewelry industry during her school summer vacations 30 years ago, and she continues to become more of an avid gemstone and jewelry enthusiast each day. She has enjoyed writing appraisals, procuring high quality ready-to-wear gemstones and jewelry... Read More →

Mike West, ACGA

Gemologist-Appraiser, RF Moeller Jeweler

Qualified Appraiser,
Sailboat racing for pleasure

Randall Lightfoot, CGA, 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

Level Intermediate
Session Format Panel Discussion
Audience Retailers, Appraisers

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 and menopause, appearance pressures, and navigating personal health challenges while maintaining leadership presence. By sharing experiences about what has worked and lessons learned, the discussion aims to normalize these conversations in professional settings. Attendees will leave with practical strategies, a renewed perspective, and a stronger sense of community.

Speakers

Jen Cullen Williams

Founder, Jen Cullen Williams Communications

Panelists

Alexis Padis

President, Padis Jewelry

Becka Johnson Kibby

CEO, Edge Retail Academy

Becka Johnson Kibby brings more than 30 years of experience in fine jewelry retail management, training, and sales. Her career began while earning her Bachelor of Science in Retail Merchandising and Management and has since spanned leadership roles with Robbins Brothers The Engagement... Read More →

Denise Richards

Vice President, Underwood Jewelers

Denise Richards is the Vice President of Underwood Jewelers, which has three locations in Jacksonville, Florida. Denise currently serves as Secretary of the American Gem Society (AGS) and Chair of the AGS Conclave Subcommittee. She is the past President of the AGS Young Titleholders... Read More →

Elyssa Jenkins-Perez

Head of North American Development, Responsible Jewellery Council

Elyssa Jenkins Pérez is dedicated to advancing responsible business practices, industry collaboration, and greater inclusion across the global jewelry and watch industry. She serves as Head of North American Development at the Responsible Jewellery Council (RJC), the world's leading... Read More →

Thursday September 17, 2026 3:00pm - 4:00pm EDT
Congressional B

Track, Sales and Marketing

Level Intermediate
Session Format Panel Discussion
Audience Retailers, Appraisers, Vendors

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 from across the jewelry industry to share candid insights on what leadership looks like in 2026. From motivating multigenerational teams and navigating workplace culture shifts to making tough decisions, managing growth, and staying authentic under pressure, this conversation will explore the real-world challenges and rewards of being “the boss.” This panel is for the dreamers with big ideas and the doers with big dreams. Because leadership isn’t just about being in charge: it’s about bringing people with you.

Speakers

Sara Yood, Esq.

CEO, JVC

Panelists

Annie Doresca

President + CEO, Diamond Council of America

I lead the Diamond Council of America and serve as COO and CFO of Jewelers of America, so I work at the intersection of education, strategic planning, finance, and workforce development. I am especially passionate about Second Spark, our initiative bringing veterans and returning... Read More →

Jenny Luker

President, Platinum Guild International USA

Lisa Bridge, CG

Monica Stephenson

President, ANZA Gems

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

Track, Business Management

Level Intermediate
Session Format Panel Discussion
Audience Retailers, Appraisers, Vendors

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 clearly with watch customers, asking the right questions, and translating customer concerns into meaningful details for the watchmaker or technician. We’ll also talk about how to build rapport with even the most particular clients and how to avoid common misunderstandings that can lead to frustration or delays. This workshop will help set you up for success with even the most selective watch customer.

Speakers

Track, Gems Jewelry and Watches

Level Beginner
Session Format Panel Discussion
Audience Retailers

9:00am EDT

10:30am EDT

2:30pm EDT

2:30pm EDT

4:00pm EDT

4:00pm EDT

10:15am EDT

10:15am EDT

11:45am EDT

11:45am EDT

3:00pm EDT

3:00pm EDT

4:30pm EDT

11:00am EDT

11:00am EDT

3:00pm EDT

3:00pm EDT

4:30pm EDT

4:30pm EDT

Get help with the event