CrimeFeb 27, 2026
Man Charged in Murders of Father, Son Jewelers in ChicagoChicago police and members of the U.S. Marshals Service tracked down the 35-year-old suspect earlier this week in St. Louis.
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
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
SourcingFeb 27, 2026
South African Diamond Mine Closes Amid Search for Missing WorkersOwners of the Ekapa Mine reportedly filed for liquidation about a week after a mudslide trapped five workers who have yet to be found.
MajorsFeb 27, 2026
Jewelers Mutual to Donate $10M to Savannah College of Art and DesignA 10-year alliance has also begun to address the shortage of bench jewelers through scholarships, enhanced programs, and updated equipment.
Brought to you by
Is This You? Every Jeweler Has This Problem; We Have the Solution.Every jeweler faces the same challenge: helping customers protect what they love. Here’s the solution designed for today’s jewelry business.
CollectionsFeb 27, 2026
Renato Cipullo Turns Gold into HardstonesThe “Splendente” collection has evolved to feature hardstone letter pendants, including our Piece of the Week, the onyx “R.”
Weekly QuizFeb 26, 2026
This Week’s QuizTest your jewelry news knowledge by answering these questions.
AuctionsFeb 26, 2026
Noonans to Auction Lady Wardington’s JewelryThe jewelry collection belonged to “one of society's most glamorous and beautiful women of the mid-20th century,” said the auction house.
SourcingFeb 26, 2026
Anglo American CEO Gives Insight Into De Beers SaleThe update came as Anglo took its third write-down on the diamond miner and marketer, which lost more than $500 million in 2025.
Brought to you by
DCA Enters a New Chapter in Jewelry EducationWith refreshed branding, a new website, updated courses, and a pathway for growth, DCA is dedicated to supporting retail staff development.
CrimeFeb 26, 2026
Three Sentenced in California Jewelry HeistEach received around four years for burglarizing a jewelry store and a coffee shop in Simi Valley, California, last May.
Events & AwardsFeb 26, 2026
GIA Names 2026 Jewelry Design Contest Winner, Retires Annual AwardCatherine Aulick, a GIA graduate, received the ninth and final Gianmaria Buccellati Foundation Award for Excellence in Jewelry Design.
TrendsFeb 25, 2026
Engagement Ring Trends 2026: What’s In, and WhyWe asked a jewelry historian, designer, bridal director, and wedding expert what’s trending in engagement rings. Here’s what they said.
SourcingFeb 25, 2026
7 Trends That Could Define the Diamond Industry’s FutureExperts from India weigh in the politics, policies, and market dynamics for diamantaires to monitor in 2026 and beyond.
EditorsFeb 25, 2026
Q&A: Brilliant Earth’s CEO on the New Beverly Hills StoreBeth Gerstein discusses the vibe of the new store, what customers want when fine jewelry shopping today, and the details of “Date Night.”
PodcastsFeb 25, 2026
Episode 2: Jewelry Trends & Does the Red Carpet Matter?Are arm bands poised to make a comeback? Has red-carpet jewelry become boring? Find out on the second episode of the “My Next Question” podcast.
WatchesFeb 25, 2026
Private Equity Firms Write Down Value of Breitling, Report SaysThe Swiss watchmaker is battling declining sales amid a rapid retail expansion, according to a Financial Times report.
CollectionsFeb 25, 2026
Rahaminov Diamonds’ New Campaign Honors Its MatriarchThe campaign celebrates Giustina Pavanello Rahaminov, the co-founder’s wife and matriarch of the family-owned brand, for her 88th birthday.
IndependentsFeb 25, 2026
Borsheims Names 2025 ‘Ike-It’ Award WinnerRachel Bennett, a senior jeweler who has been with Borsheims since 2004, earned the award.
Policies & IssuesFeb 24, 2026
IEEPA Tariffs Terminated, New 10% Tariff Already ImposedAfter the Supreme Court struck down the IEEPA tariffs, President Trump imposed a 10 percent tax on almost all imports via a different law.
IndependentsFeb 24, 2026
Sherry Smith Now Principal Partner at The Retail SmithsThe industry veteran, who was with The Edge Retail Academy for 14 years, joins her husband at the company he founded in 2022.
IndependentsFeb 24, 2026
Yafa Signed Jewels to Open Store in MiamiThe vintage signed jewelry retailer chose Miami due to growing client demand in the city and the greater Latin American region.
WatchesFeb 24, 2026
Chrono24 Names New VP, U.S. General ManagerFormer Flight Club executive Jin Lee will bring his experience from the sneaker world to the pre-owned watch marketplace.
SourcingFeb 23, 2026
Designer Eddie Sakamoto, a Humble Artist, Dies at 72Sakamoto, who died in mid-January following a sudden illness, is remembered for his humility and his masterful, architectural designs.
Events & AwardsFeb 23, 2026
NYCJAOS Announces Four-Day Spring ShowThe April event will feature a new VIP shopping day requiring a special ticket.
TrendsFeb 23, 2026
Dua Lipa Is Bulgari’s New AmbassadorBulgari chose the British-Albanian singer-songwriter for her powerful and enduring voice in contemporary culture, the jeweler said.
Policies & IssuesFeb 20, 2026
Supreme Court Rules Against Most of President Trump’s TariffsIn a 6-3 ruling, the court said the president exceeded his authority when imposing sweeping tariffs under IEEPA.
MajorsFeb 20, 2026
Jewelers Vigilance Committee Names Julie Yoakum Board ChairJVC also announced the election of five new board members.
CollectionsFeb 20, 2026
Boucheron’s ‘Faisceaux’ Brooch Heads to V&A MuseumThe brooch, our Piece of the Week, shows the chromatic spectrum through a holographic coating on rock crystal.
