Converge Taps Neuroscientist as Opening Keynote Speaker
Beau Lotto’s immersive presentation will be a blend of neuroscience, art, and entertainment.

The inaugural event will be held Sept. 7-10 in Carlsbad, California, at GIA’s headquarters and the Omni La Costa Resort.
Lotto's presentation will be “an immersive exploration of perception, reality, and change,” said organizers.
“This keynote will be a standout—Beau Lotto redefines how we think about change. He will captivate and inspire by showing how we—as individuals, businesses, and an industry—can flourish in times of change. His approach to creativity, leadership, and innovation promises to be a truly illuminating experience,” said Katherine Bodoh, CEO of AGS.
Using science and research, his presentation is a mix of entertainment, real-world neuroscience experiments, and art.
“Success depends on adaptability more than anything else,” said Susan Jacques, president and CEO of GIA. “I can think of no better way to begin Converge than with an engaging exploration of how embracing uncertainty can improve our ability to adapt, innovate, and succeed.”
Lotto has spoken at several well-known events, including Davos, Cannes, and Burning Man, as well as at the G8 and on the TED main stage.
He has worked with Microsoft, L'Oréal, the Crown Prince’s Court of the United Arab Emirates, and Cirque du Soleil.
In 2001, he founded the Lab of Misfits Studio, said to be the world’s only neuroperception creative studio.
He is also the CEO and founder of tech company Ripple Inc., which holds five patents in augmented reality with two further patents pending.
There will be two other keynote sessions at Converge, with more details to follow.
The second keynote, held on Sept. 9, will feature a panel of business thought leaders discussing the challenges and opportunities facing the global gem and jewelry sector.
On Sept. 10, the closing keynote will bring together the week’s insights in “an engagingly unexpected way.”
In addition to these keynotes, Converge will offer education sessions, research presentations, and a Harvard Business School executive education seminar created exclusively for Converge.
There will also be excursions to GIA’s headquarters and other local attractions, including a whale watching tour, a vineyard wine tasting, and a tour of the Oceanview mine.
For more information or to register, visit the Converge website.
The Latest

Linda Coutu is rejoining the precious metals provider as its director of sales.

The Signet Jewelers-owned store, which turned 100 last year, calls its new concept stores “The Edit.”

The supplier has a curated list of must-have tools for jewelers doing in-house custom work this year.

How Jewelers of America’s 20 Under 40 are leading to ensure a brighter future for the jewelry industry.

Footage of a fight breaking out in the NYC Diamond District was viewed millions of times on Instagram and Facebook.


The governing board welcomed two new members, Claire Scragg and Susan Eisen.

Sparkle with festive diamond jewelry as we celebrate the beginning of 2026.

Roseco’s 704-page catalog showcases new lab-grown diamonds, findings, tools & more—available in print or interactive digital editions.

The master jeweler, Olympian, former senator, and Korean War veteran founded the brand Nighthorse Jewelry.

In its annual report, Pinterest noted an increase in searches for brooches, heirloom jewelry, and ‘80s luxury.

Executive Chairman Richard Baker will take over the role as rumors swirl that a bankruptcy filing is imminent for the troubled retailer.

Shekhar Shah of Real Gems Inc. will serve as president of the Indian Diamond & Colorstone Association in 2026.

This year’s good luck charm features the mythical horse Pegasus, and is our first Piece of the Week of the new year.

Articles about crime, engagement rings, and a necklace worn in the World Series generated the most interest among readers.

As part of the leadership transition, Sherry Smith will take on the role of vice president of coaching strategy and development.

It marks the third time the country has headed the Kimberley Process. Ghana will serve as vice chair.

The new Bulova x Stetson designs highlight two animals often associated with the American West—the bison and the Texas Longhorn.

Its residency at Yamron Jewelers will run through May 2026.

From influential executives to innovative designers, we pay tribute to the people we said goodbye to this year.

The retailer is expanding into areas with large Indian and South Asian populations.

The Italian brand has opened its first flagship amid the peaks of the Dolomites in Madonna di Campiglio, Italy.

The new curation at the Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County showcases rare gem and mineral specimens in their uncut, natural state.

The couple pleaded guilty to concealing at least $127 million in cash transactions at its precious metals businesses.

Consumers shared concerns about prices, inflation, tariffs, trade, and politics in the survey’s write-in response section.

In February 2026, the auction house will move its headquarters to the former Steinway Hall, a neoclassical landmark on Billionaires’ Row.

The former BHP Billiton leader and Gemfields chairman is remembered for his influential leadership throughout his 50-year mining career.

The LVMH-owned brand has partnered with the costume design union to revamp its award for 2026.






















