GradingFeb 02, 2026
IGI to Acquire American Gemological Laboratories IGI is buying the colored gemstone grading laboratory through IGI USA, and AGL will continue to operate as its own brand.
ColumnistsJul 08, 2020
The Smart Lab: All About Google’s Algorithms
Smart Age’s Emmanuel Raheb on why it’s important to always stay up-to-date with the latest changes to Google’s frequently altered algorithms.
Emmanuel Raheb is the CEO of Smart Age Solutions, a digital ad agency and coveted Premier Google Partner. Contact him at eraheb@smartagesolutions.com.
Google’s search algorithm can be a powerful tool to boost your website, but if you don’t know how to use it, things might take a turn for the worst.
Some of the algorithms are widely known. They’ve impacted search engine optimization (SEO), and, thus, the rankings of websites.
This, of course, translates into revenue.
Google updates its algorithms constantly, and it can be a bit difficult to keep up with the changes. You might be working with an obsolete notion of Google’s SEO algorithms.
But, first things first, so let’s start with the basics.
What Is a Google Algorithm Update?
Google’s updates to its algorithms directly influence the way it positions your website when someone uses its search engine.
Updates on Google’s algorithms affect:
• Search ranking and visibility;
• Organic search traffic;
• Conversions;
• Return on investment (ROI); and
• Revenue.
But before you see it as punishment, think of these algorithms as a way to reward websites that value excellent user experience and provide relevant content.
Google aims to give the most accurate results when someone asks a question; therefore, if you want your website to be ranked first, be precise.
Build expertise, authority, and trustworthiness into your content, which brings us to ...
Google’s E-A-T
If you haven’t heard of E-A-T, you’re in need of some important information ASAP.
E-A-T stands for exactly what we were just talking about: expertise, authority, and trustworthiness.
The acronym came about after Google’s broad core update in August 2018, which, according to the company, is supposed to promote and encourage high-quality content.
It’s all about being relevant and accurate because the information you give affects users’ well-being.
By now you might already know the answer to the next question, but just in case …
Why Are Google’s Updates So Important?
Because they can make you or break you. It’s as simple as that.
Nowadays, user experience is what needs to be prioritized. Not only in the sense that the flows on your website must be intuitive for them, but also in the way you present information.
If your content is relevant and accurate (and these are words you should always keep in mind), then your ranking will be good.
If it isn’t, the algorithms are there to make you see it, and, most importantly, change it.
OK, but …
How Do I Track Google’s Updates?
Well, Google updates its algorithms thousands of times a year.
This is not a reason to panic because not
Some of the algorithms are widely known. They’ve impacted search engine optimization (SEO), and, thus, the rankings of websites.
This, of course, translates into revenue.
Google updates its algorithms constantly, and it can be a bit difficult to keep up with the changes. You might be working with an obsolete notion of Google’s SEO algorithms.
But, first things first, so let’s start with the basics.
What Is a Google Algorithm Update?
Google’s updates to its algorithms directly influence the way it positions your website when someone uses its search engine.
Updates on Google’s algorithms affect:
• Search ranking and visibility;
• Organic search traffic;
• Conversions;
• Return on investment (ROI); and
• Revenue.
But before you see it as punishment, think of these algorithms as a way to reward websites that value excellent user experience and provide relevant content.
Google aims to give the most accurate results when someone asks a question; therefore, if you want your website to be ranked first, be precise.
Build expertise, authority, and trustworthiness into your content, which brings us to ...
Google’s E-A-T
If you haven’t heard of E-A-T, you’re in need of some important information ASAP.
E-A-T stands for exactly what we were just talking about: expertise, authority, and trustworthiness.
The acronym came about after Google’s broad core update in August 2018, which, according to the company, is supposed to promote and encourage high-quality content.
It’s all about being relevant and accurate because the information you give affects users’ well-being.
By now you might already know the answer to the next question, but just in case …
Why Are Google’s Updates So Important?
Because they can make you or break you. It’s as simple as that.
Nowadays, user experience is what needs to be prioritized. Not only in the sense that the flows on your website must be intuitive for them, but also in the way you present information.
If your content is relevant and accurate (and these are words you should always keep in mind), then your ranking will be good.
If it isn’t, the algorithms are there to make you see it, and, most importantly, change it.
OK, but …
How Do I Track Google’s Updates?
Well, Google updates its algorithms thousands of times a year.
This is not a reason to panic because not
Editors' Picks
Sponsored by
all of them will affect you. Some are very specific, so they might not be relevant for the type of content or service you provide.
But it helps to keep track of the big changes, as that’s valuable information. It gives you the chance to be ahead of the game, to check whether these updates will impact you or not.
It also contributes to your understanding of how often Google implements its algorithms, so maybe you’ll even be able to anticipate what’s to come.
There are great SEO blogs that indicate algorithm updates, and Google itself will rank the best source when you ask it for the most recent changes.
Just google “most recent changes to Google algorithm,” and you’ll see what I mean.
But it helps to keep track of the big changes, as that’s valuable information. It gives you the chance to be ahead of the game, to check whether these updates will impact you or not.
It also contributes to your understanding of how often Google implements its algorithms, so maybe you’ll even be able to anticipate what’s to come.
There are great SEO blogs that indicate algorithm updates, and Google itself will rank the best source when you ask it for the most recent changes.
Just google “most recent changes to Google algorithm,” and you’ll see what I mean.
More on Columnists
The Latest
CrimeFeb 02, 2026
Ylang 23’s Dallas Store BurglarizedThe Texas jeweler said its team is “incredibly resilient” and thanked its community for showing support.
EditorsFeb 02, 2026
Stars Choose Chokers, Elongated Earrings at 2026 GrammysFrom cool-toned metal to ring stacks, Associate Editor Natalie Francisco highlights the jewelry trends she spotted at the Grammy Awards.
Brought to you by
The MJSA Mentor & Apprenticeship Program: Attracting & Training the Next Generation of Bench JewelersLaunched in 2023, the program will help the passing of knowledge between generations and alleviate the shortage of bench jewelers.
CollectionsFeb 02, 2026
2026 Winter Olympic Medal Design Symbolizes UnityThe medals feature a split-texture design highlighting the fact that the 2026 Olympics are taking place in two different cities.
Weekly QuizJan 29, 2026
This Week’s QuizTest your jewelry news knowledge by answering these questions.
SurveysJan 30, 2026
These Are the Top Brands of 2026, Says YouGovFrom tech platforms to candy companies, here’s how some of the highest-ranking brands earned their spot on the list.
CollectionsJan 30, 2026
Follow the Beat With Etiq’s ‘Khol’ RingThe “Khol” ring, our Piece of the Week, transforms the traditional Indian Khol drum into playful jewelry through hand-carved lapis.
Brought to you by
How Jewelers Can Fight Back Against Cell JammersCriminals are using cell jammers to disable alarms, but new technology like JamAlert™ can stop them.
MajorsJan 30, 2026
Arch Crown’s 2026 ‘Tag & Label’ Catalog Is HereThe catalog includes more than 100 styles of stock, pre-printed, and custom tags and labels, as well as bar code technology products.
CollectionsJan 29, 2026
Ghirardelli’s ‘Chocolocket’ Returns for Valentine’s DayThe chocolatier is bringing back its chocolate-inspired locket, offering sets of two to celebrate “perfect pairs.”
AuctionsJan 29, 2026
These Were Bonhams’ Top 10 Jewelry Lots in 2025The top lot of the year was a 1930s Cartier tiara owned by Nancy, Viscountess Astor, which sold for $1.2 million in London last summer.
SourcingJan 29, 2026
Stuller Website to Mark AGTA-Sourced GemstonesAny gemstones on Stuller.com that were sourced by an AGTA vendor member will now bear the association’s logo.
WatchesJan 29, 2026
Audemars Piguet Opens AP House in AtlantaThe Swiss watchmaker has brought its latest immersive boutique to Atlanta, a city it described as “an epicenter of music and storytelling.”
SourcingJan 28, 2026
Ethical Gem Fair to Debut Designer Showcase in TucsonThe new addition will feature finished jewelry created using “consciously sourced” gemstones.
SurveysJan 28, 2026
Consumer Confidence Falls Below Pandemic Lows in JanuaryThe index fell to its lowest level since May 2014 amid concerns about the present and the future.
IndependentsJan 28, 2026
Foundrae Heads to Aspen for Latest Store OpeningThe new store in Aspen, Colorado, takes inspiration from a stately library for its intimate yet elevated interior design.
FinancialsJan 28, 2026
Tiffany & Co., Bulgari Sales Resilient as LVMH’s 2025 Sales SlipThe brands’ high jewelry collections performed especially well last year despite a challenging environment.
CollectionsJan 27, 2026
De Beers London, GemFair Debut New Collection Highlighting Artisanal DiamondsThe collection marks the first time GemFair’s artisanal diamonds will be brought directly to consumers.
SourcingJan 27, 2026
GemGuide Launches Pricing for Montana SapphiresThe initial charts are for blue, teal, and green material, each grouped into three charts categorized as good, fine, and extra fine.
TechnologyJan 27, 2026
Clientbook Launches Appointment Booking ToolThe new tool can assign the appropriate associate based on the client or appointment type and automate personalized text message follow-ups.
SourcingJan 26, 2026
Tucson Preview 2026: Earthy Tones and Innovative Shapes Buyers are expected to gravitate toward gemstones that have a little something special, just like last year.
SourcingJan 26, 2026
Angolan Diamond Cos. Join NDC as Rio Tinto, Murowa Exit Endiama and Sodiam will contribute money to the marketing of natural diamonds as new members of the Natural Diamond Council.
MajorsJan 26, 2026
Francesca’s To Close All StoresThe retailer operates more than 450 boutiques across 45 states, according to its website.
MajorsJan 26, 2026
BIJC Names 5 New Board MembersThe new members’ skills span communications, business development, advocacy, and industry leadership.
CollectionsJan 26, 2026
Tiffany & Co. Celebrates 189 Years of Love StoriesThe jeweler’s 2026 Valentine’s Day campaign, “Celebrating Love Stories Since 1837,” includes a short firm starring actress Adria Arjona.
GradingJan 26, 2026
DCA Updates Colored Gemstone CourseThe new features include interactive flashcards and scenario-based roleplay with AI tools.
MajorsJan 23, 2026
Watches of Switzerland Acquires 4-Store Jewelry Chain in TexasFamily-owned jewelry and watch retailer Deutsch & Deutsch has stores in El Paso, Laredo, McAllen, and Victoria.
