After partnering with GIA for Converge in Carlsbad last year, the American Gem Society heads to Orlando this September 14–17 for its 2026 Conclave, featuring more than 50 educational sessions, GIA hands-on gemology experiences, colored stone research, and interactive watchmaking workshops.
With 11 breakout session periods and more than 50 educational sessions to choose from, attendees can tailor a program covering gemology, business, leadership, retail, manufacturing, and watchmaking. GIA will once again offer a series of hands-on laboratory experiences, while the American Watchmakers-Clockmakers Institute (AWCI) returns with its popular Archie Perkins Mobile Horology Classroom, featuring live demonstrations and interactive learning with professional watchmakers.
Gemological sessions – Tuesday – worth watching
So much to choose from, with several sessions immediately catching our attention. Here are just a few!
Nicole Ahline, Senior Manager of Colored Stone Research at GIA, will present “Colored Stone Treatments in the 21st Century,” examining many of the treatment methods introduced over the past two decades and why recognizing them has become increasingly important in today’s marketplace.
Dr. Aaron Palke will discuss GIA’s expanding geographic origin research, including the laboratory’s new origin services for jade, opal, demantoid garnet, and peridot, while also leading a hands-on workshop exploring treatments in ruby and sapphire.
For those who enjoy looking inside gemstones, Nathan Renfro returns with his always-popular hands-on exploration of the microworld of natural diamonds, highlighting inclusions and internal features that reveal both geological history and gemological identity.
And for anyone fascinated by gem localities, Laurie Reid will take attendees on a photographic journey through the historic ruby and spinel mines of Badakhshan, Tajikistan—offering a rare glimpse into one of the world’s most storied colored stone regions.
Scholarships to be presented during Conclave
Conclave will also serve as the venue where AGS recognizes this year’s scholarship recipients.
The 2026 Beatrice Shipley Scholarship, presented jointly by AGS and GIA, has been awarded to Karen Fox of Fox Fine Jewelry in Ventura, California.
The Beatrice Shipley Scholarship, established by AGS and GIA in 2019, honors Beatrice Shipley, whose behind-the-scenes leadership helped shape both organizations alongside her husband, Robert M. Shipley. The award provides tuition for GIA’s Graduate Gemologist® program, the AGS Way Course, and registration to Conclave.
AGS will also recognize Jenna Siegel of Argo & Lehne Jewelers in Columbus, Ohio, as the recipient of the 2026 Women in Leadership Scholarship.
The Women in Leadership Scholarship reflects AGS’s commitment to developing future leaders by providing Conclave registration, a mentorship opportunity, and financial support for professional development.
Both recipients will be recognized during Conclave, which returns to Orlando this September with a program heavily focused on gemology, colored stones, and hands-on education.
Tap here to learn more about AGS, become a member, and register for Conclave.
About the American Gem Society
The American Gem Society (AGS), founded in 1934 by Robert M. Shipley, is a nonprofit trade association dedicated to ethics, knowledge, and consumer protection within the jewelry industry. AGS awards credentials for its members, who are held to the industry’s highest standards and must pass annual recertification examinations to maintain their titles. Members of the AGS are passionate about jewelry and dedicated to creating a positive buying experience for their customers. Visit americangemsociety.org to learn more.
About GIA
An independent nonprofit organization, GIA (Gemological Institute of America), established in 1931, is recognized as the world’s foremost authority in gemology. GIA invented the famous 4Cs of Color, Clarity, Cut and Carat Weight and, in 1953, created the International Diamond Grading System™ which is recognized around the world as the standard for diamond quality.
Image courtesy of AGS
Through research, education, gemological laboratory services, and instrument development, the Institute is dedicated to ensuring the public trust in gems and jewelry by upholding the highest standards of integrity, academics, science and professionalism. Visit GIA.edu.
About the Beatrice Shipley Scholarship
Established in 2019 by GIA and administered by AGS, the Beatrice Shipley Scholarship honors the legacy of Robert and Beatrice Shipley, who founded GIA and AGS in the 1930s with the goal of educating jewelers and elevating industry standards. This scholarship continues their mission by supporting the next generation of jewelry professionals through advanced gemological education.
About the Women in Leadership Scholarship
The Women in Leadership Scholarship is part of AGS’s ongoing effort to foster diversity and leadership within the jewelry community. The program reflects the Society’s belief in the power of mentorship and the opportunity to shape future leaders and drive industry progress.
