Events & AwardsMar 04, 2026
JIS Miami Spring Show to Feature New Gifts Pavilion, Pop-Up Trends TalksEvents & AwardsMar 05, 2026
AGS Announces Conclave 2026 Speaker Lineup
The annual event will be held in Orlando, Florida, from Sept. 14-17.
Conclave 2026 will take place Sept. 14-17 at the Omni Orlando Resort at ChampionsGate in Orlando, Florida.
Las Vegas—The American Gem Society (AGS) has announced its keynote speaker line-up for Conclave 2026.
The annual event will take place Sept. 14–17 at the Omni Orlando Resort at ChampionsGate in Orlando, Florida.
This year’s keynote speakers were chosen to provide actionable strategies that address the evolving needs of the jewelry industry, said AGS, bringing their perspectives on leadership, service, creativity, and magic.
The opening keynote speaker on Tuesday, Sept. 15, is Ben Nemtin, co-founder of The Buried Life movement, which encourages people to embrace “radical possibility,” and the author of “What Do You Want to Do Before You Die?”
He is also a nationally recognized speaker whose message focuses on purpose, resilience, and personal growth.
Wednesday’s breakfast keynote speaker will be Will Guidara, the author of “Unreasonable Hospitality” and former co-owner of New York City restaurant Eleven Madison Park.
Under his leadership, the restaurant earned four New York Times stars, three Michelin stars, and was named No. 1 on the “World’s 50 Best Restaurants” list in 2017.
Guidara’s keynote will focus on leadership, service, and organizational culture.
Thursday’s breakfast keynote speaker is Deanna Marsigliese, an art director, character designer, and 2D animator at Pixar Animation Studios.
Since 2012, Marsigliese has worked on several films, including “Inside Out,” “Soul,” “Toy Story 4,” and “Luca,” and most recently designed characters for Pixar’s “Inside Out 2.”
On Friday, the Titleholder Luncheon keynote speaker will be David Kwong, a magician, New York Times crossword puzzle constructor, and TED Talk speaker.
Kwong combines illusion and psychology to explore the subjects of perception, influence, and problem-solving for professional audiences.
Related stories will be right here …
The annual event will take place Sept. 14–17 at the Omni Orlando Resort at ChampionsGate in Orlando, Florida.
This year’s keynote speakers were chosen to provide actionable strategies that address the evolving needs of the jewelry industry, said AGS, bringing their perspectives on leadership, service, creativity, and magic.
The opening keynote speaker on Tuesday, Sept. 15, is Ben Nemtin, co-founder of The Buried Life movement, which encourages people to embrace “radical possibility,” and the author of “What Do You Want to Do Before You Die?”
He is also a nationally recognized speaker whose message focuses on purpose, resilience, and personal growth.
Wednesday’s breakfast keynote speaker will be Will Guidara, the author of “Unreasonable Hospitality” and former co-owner of New York City restaurant Eleven Madison Park.
Under his leadership, the restaurant earned four New York Times stars, three Michelin stars, and was named No. 1 on the “World’s 50 Best Restaurants” list in 2017.
Guidara’s keynote will focus on leadership, service, and organizational culture.
Thursday’s breakfast keynote speaker is Deanna Marsigliese, an art director, character designer, and 2D animator at Pixar Animation Studios.
Since 2012, Marsigliese has worked on several films, including “Inside Out,” “Soul,” “Toy Story 4,” and “Luca,” and most recently designed characters for Pixar’s “Inside Out 2.”
On Friday, the Titleholder Luncheon keynote speaker will be David Kwong, a magician, New York Times crossword puzzle constructor, and TED Talk speaker.
Kwong combines illusion and psychology to explore the subjects of perception, influence, and problem-solving for professional audiences.
“Conclave delivers the education, inspiration, and community that AGS members rely on to grow, and we’re excited to bring that experience to Orlando,” said Denise Richards, chair of the Conclave subcommittee.
“There’s something inherently magical about gathering in a place known for imagination and possibility, and that spirit of whimsy is reflected in this year’s keynote lineup. The program is designed to deliver practical ideas attendees can bring straight back to their businesses—strengthening leadership, elevating the client experience and sparking fresh thinking that helps teams perform at their best.”
Alexis Padis, president of the AGS International board of directors, said she’s excited to welcome Conclave 2026 attendees to Orlando.
“Conclave is one of those rare events where you leave feeling recharged, prouder of the work we do, and even more excited about what’s next,” she said.
“Our keynote lineup, along with other plans we have in store, will make it a standout year.”
More information about speakers and education programming will be announced in the coming months, said AGS.
Registration is now open online.
More on Events & Awards
The Latest
WatchesApr 16, 2026
Cartier Brings Back the RoadsterThe “watchmaker of shapes” debuted the reworked version of the vintage sports car-inspired timepiece at Watches & Wonders.
IndependentsApr 16, 2026
Edge Retail Academy Updates Leadership TeamAs demand for jewelry retail coaching grows, the company has established a dedicated business coaching leadership team.
MajorsApr 16, 2026
Stuller’s Latest Mountings Catalog Is Out NowThe “Mountings 2026-2027” catalog showcases Stuller’s largest and most diverse assortment to date with more than 400 new mounting styles.
Brought to you by
Discover Timeless Treasures: A Showcase of Antique Jewelry & Timepieces in Las VegasGain access to the most exclusive and coveted antique pieces from trusted dealers during Las Vegas Jewelry Week.
CrimeApr 16, 2026
FBI Issues Warning to Refineries, Retailers Due to High Price of GoldThe alert states that burglary crews are targeting jewelry businesses and details how jewelers and refineries can protect themselves.
Weekly QuizApr 16, 2026
This Week’s QuizTest your jewelry news knowledge by answering these questions.
PodcastsApr 15, 2026
Episode 4: The Natural Diamond DilemmaSally Morrison and Mark Klein discuss De Beers’ first beacon in 16 years and the mistake the industry made with lab-grown diamonds.
MajorsApr 15, 2026
Spark Creations’ Randy McKenzie Dies at 72 McKenzie spent 45 years with Spark Creations and is remembered for being kind, dedicated, and hardworking.
Brought to you by
Las Vegas Antique Jewelry & Watch Show: Showcasing the Most Collectible Merchandise from Across the GlobeGain access to the most exclusive and coveted antique pieces from trusted dealers during Las Vegas Jewelry Week.
WatchesApr 15, 2026
These Are the New Rolex Watches for 2026Rolex focused exclusively on the Oyster Perpetual this year, as the model is celebrating its 100th anniversary.
FinancialsApr 15, 2026
Kering’s Jewelry Shines in Q1, Gucci’s Struggle ContinuesThe luxury giant discussed the Middle East conflict and its transformation plans, hinting at a stronger jewelry presence in North America.
SourcingApr 15, 2026
Diamond Club West Coast Names 2026 BoardKalpesh Jhaveri was re-elected as president for a third year.
TechnologyApr 15, 2026
This Jewelry Brand’s Video Series Is Up for a Webby Award“Diamond Divas,” a social media reality series by Shahla Karimi Jewelry, is nominated in the “Best Social: Fashion & Beauty” category.
SourcingApr 14, 2026
De Beers Expands ‘Desert Diamonds’ Beacon Into BridalThe campaign seeks to reignite desire for natural diamond engagement rings by highlighting the “distinct character” of warm-toned diamonds.
FinancialsApr 14, 2026
LVMH’s Q1 Sales Sink 6% Amid Middle East ConflictPlus, how Saks Global’s bankruptcy affected the luxury giant’s first quarter.
SourcingApr 14, 2026
International Jade Summit to Return to MontereyPresented by Mason-Kay Jade, the summit, in its second year, will again be held during the Monterey Bay Jade Festival.
CollectionsApr 13, 2026
Uniform Object’s New Jewelry Collection Centers on the ‘Carbon Form’The “Carbon Form” collection explores the contrast between high and low materials, using rubber cord alongside 18-karat gold and gemstones.
Events & AwardsApr 13, 2026
Couture Announces New Show in MiamiThe jewelry trade show is launching its first open-to-the-public event in Coconut Grove this November.
CrimeApr 13, 2026
JSA Offers Reward in Oregon Jewelry Store Armed RobberyJSA is seeking information about the gunpoint robbery of a Kay Jewelers location in Oregon’s Washington Square Mall.
WatchesApr 10, 2026
These Watches Have Increased in Value the Most Since 2018, Says Chrono24The top-performing watch models may be surprising, with Rolex and several popular pandemic-era picks notably absent from the top 20.
CollectionsApr 10, 2026
Ophelia Eve’s Toggle Pendant Holds Your SecretsThe “Scroll” toggle pendant, our Piece of the Week, opens to reveal a hidden message, mantra, or love letter written on washi paper.
ColumnistsApr 09, 2026
Jewelry Demand Isn’t Stronger, Prices Are Just Higher Jewelers who misinterpret the state of the jewelry market risk employing the wrong retail strategy, cautions columnist Sherry Smith.
MajorsApr 09, 2026
Tiffany & Co. Promotes Nathalie Verdeille to SVP, Chief Artistic OfficerIn her newly expanded role, she will continue to oversee the jewelry category, as well as watches, home, and accessories.
WatchesApr 09, 2026
Jacob & Co. Rolls Out Its Sequel to ‘The Godfather’ Musical Watch“The Godfather II” watch plays two melodies from the mob film’s score, “The Godfather’s Waltz” and “The Godfather Love Theme.”
Events & AwardsApr 09, 2026
JCK Announces Jesse Itzler as 2026 Keynote SpeakerOrganizers have also introduced the new JCK Talks Signature Series, as well as an offering of watch-focused workshops and lectures.
SourcingApr 09, 2026
AGA To Honor ‘Quiet Leadership’ With New AwardThe Alan Hodgkinson Medal recognizes gemologists who are consistently generous with their time and expertise.
WatchesApr 09, 2026
Oris Names New CEO, CFOThe Swiss watchmaker is changing up its executive leadership team as part of a restructuring.
CollectionsApr 08, 2026
Hearts On Fire Celebrates 30 Years By Asking a QuestionThe “What’s Your Signature?” campaign invites women to think about how they see themselves.
