The 2026 Accredited Gemologists Association’s Tucson Gemological Conference and Awards Gala will take place at the Tucson Marriott University Park on Wednesday, February 4, 2026. This premier global conference is for gemologists—connecting leaders, advancing knowledge, and shaping the future of gemology.
Here is the full speaker lineup for the upcoming AGA Tucson Conference!
Conference Speakers:
- Aaron Palke, PhD, GIA GG — Research Scientist, GIA
- Clemens Schwarzinger, PhD — Associate Professor at Johannes Kepler University Linz, owner of Clemens Schwarzinger Gemstones e.U.
- Damien Cody — President of International Colored Gemstone Association (ICA) Managing Director at Cody Opal Australia Pty Ltd
- Kerry Gregory, FGA, DGA, GIA GG, EG — Head of Shiny Stuff at Gemmology Rocks
- Sarah Caldwell Steele, FGA, DGA — Director of The Ebor Jetworks Ltd, Doctoral Researcher at Durham University
- Brendan Laurs, MS, FGA, GIA GG — Editor-in-Chief, The Journal of Gemmology
Early Bird
Now is also the perfect time to register—Early Bird* discounts are still available for a limited time. Secure your spot, save on registration, and join us in Tucson! We look forward to welcoming you!
Early Bird Rates
Member: $300
Non-Member: $425
Standard Rates
Member: $350
Non-Member: $475
Gala Only
Member: $135
Non-Member: $145
*Early Bird Registration Discount ends on December 31, 2025 at 11:59 PM Pacific Time
Conference Schedule
Morning Session
08:00 am — Registration and Coffee
08:40 am — Opening Remarks
09:10 am — Presentation by Damien Cody
10:00 am — Networking (30 min)
10:30 am — Presentation by Sarah Caldwell Steele
11:15 pm — Presentation by Prof. Clemens Schwarzinger
Lunch Break
12:00 pm — (1 hour 15 mins)
Afternoon Session
01:15 pm — Presentation by Kerry Gregory
02:15 pm — Presentation by Brendan Laurs
02:35 pm — AGA Diamond Project Update
03:00 pm — Networking (30 min)
03:30 pm — Presentation by Dr. Aaron Palke
04:15 pm — Closing Remarks
The Gala Bonanno Award Ceremony and Dinner-Dance
of the Antonio C. Bonanno Award for Excellence in Gemology. – Photo by Robert Weldon
AGA Gala Check-In
6:00 PM – 7:00 PM
Arrive on time for networking opportunities, hosted cocktails, and photo-ops!
AGA GALA DINNER-DANCE
7:00 PM – 11:00 PM
Enjoy an evening of good friends, dinner, and a complimentary cocktail—plus a fantastic silent auction filled with exceptional donated items. Celebrate as we honor the 2025 AGA Antonio C. Bonanno Award recipient, Brendan Laurs, then hit the dance floor to end the night in style. We can’t wait to see you there!
Silent Auction
Jewelry, gemstones, books, tools, experiences, and unique items of all kinds are welcome.
