Columnists

The Smart Lab: All About Google’s Algorithms

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.

2018_Emmanuel-Raheb_copy.jpg
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 
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. 
Emmanuel Rahebis the CEO of Smart Age Solutions, a digital ad agency and coveted Premier Google Partner.

The Latest

Kendra Scott CEO Chris Blakeslee
MajorsJan 09, 2026
Kendra Scott Taps Activewear Exec as CEO

Chris Blakeslee has experience at Athleta and Alo Yoga. Kendra Scott will remain on board as executive chair and chief visionary officer.

Wrapped holiday present boxes
SurveysJan 09, 2026
U.S. Holiday Retail Sales Up 4%, Visa, Mastercard Say

The credit card companies’ surveys examined where consumers shopped, what they bought, and what they valued this holiday season.

Christie’s Kimberly Miller
AuctionsJan 09, 2026
Christie’s Names New Global Managing Director for Luxury

Kimberly Miller has been promoted to the role.

Recipients Collage 2025 - NJ (1872 x 1050 px) (1872 x 1052 px).png
Brought to you by
Impacting Tomorrow Today

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

Lionheart Serenity Opal Amulet Charm
CollectionsJan 09, 2026
Piece of the Week: Lionheart’s ‘Serenity’ Opal Charm

The “Serenity” charm set with 13 opals is a modern amulet offering protection, guidance, and intention, the brand said.

Weekly QuizJan 08, 2026
This Week’s Quiz
Test your jewelry news knowledge by answering these questions.
Take the Quiz
Hannah Dodd and Claudia Jessie in Pandora Bridgerton campaign
CollectionsJan 08, 2026
Pandora’s New ‘Bridgerton’ Jewels Celebrate Bees, Bows, and Blooms

“Bridgerton” actresses Hannah Dodd and Claudia Jessie star in the brand’s “Rules to Love By” campaign.

Ana Khouri logo
Events & AwardsJan 08, 2026
Ana Khouri To Receive 2026 Gem Award for High Jewelry Excellence

Founded by jeweler and sculptor Ana Khouri, the brand is “expanding the boundaries of what high jewelry can be.”

roseco-catalog.png
Brought to you by
Roseco Releases New Full-Line Catalog

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

Stuller’s Color of the Year for 2026, “Signature Red”
TrendsJan 08, 2026
Stuller’s Color of the Year Is a Stark Contrast to Pantone’s White

The jewelry manufacturer and supplier is going with a fiery shade it says symbolizes power and transformation.

Gracie Abrams Chanel Coco Crush
CollectionsJan 08, 2026
Gracie Abrams To Front New Chanel Jewelry Campaign

The singer-songwriter will make her debut as the French luxury brand’s new ambassador in a campaign for its “Coco Crush” jewelry line.

Bobbi L. Avery, Jeffery Bolling, Britney Phillips, and Lindsay Salvo
MajorsJan 08, 2026
Diamond Council of America Names New Board Directors

The nonprofit’s new president and CEO, Annie Doresca, also began her role this month.

Pinar Hakim Rainbow Seahorse Pendant, Nue Fine Jewelry Irene Charm, Susannah King Venus Ring
Events & AwardsJan 07, 2026
Melee Adds 13 New Designers to NYC Show

The trade show is slated for Jan. 31-Feb. 2 at The Lighthouse in New York City's Chelsea neighborhood.

Akiva Gil garnet ring
TrendsJan 07, 2026
Amanda’s Style File: Go for Garnet

January’s birthstone comes in a rainbow of colors, from the traditional red to orange, purple, and green.

Diamonds Do Good 2025 Impact Report
SourcingJan 07, 2026
Diamonds Do Good Releases 2025 Impact Report

The annual report highlights how it supported communities in areas where natural diamonds are mined, crafted, and sold.

Police cars with lights on
CrimeJan 06, 2026
2 Jewelers Arrested After TraxNYC Diamond District Brawl

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

Rio Grande xTool F2 Ultra Portable Laser Engraver Bundle
MajorsJan 06, 2026
Rio Grande Says These Are the Top Personalization Tools for 2026

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

Zales storefront
MajorsJan 06, 2026
Zales Tests Out A New Look

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

Linda Coutu
MajorsJan 06, 2026
LeachGarner Appoints New Director of Sales

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

AGA board 2026-2029
SourcingJan 06, 2026
AGA Announces 2026 Board

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

Jenna Blake diamond Fan earrings
TrendsJan 05, 2026
Amanda’s Style File: New Year’s Edition

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

Ben Nighthorse Campbell
IndependentsJan 05, 2026
Jeweler Ben Nighthorse Campbell Dies at 92

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

Jacquie Aiche Alien Heart Eye Inlay Necklace, Cicada Dragonfly Brooch, Harkness After the Rain Earrings
TrendsJan 05, 2026
Pinterest 2026 Trend Report: Brooches, Bold Gold, Cool Blue

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

Saks Fifth Avenue flagship window installation
MajorsJan 02, 2026
Marc Metrick Out as CEO of Saks Global

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

Couture Retailer Liaison Jan Mohr
Events & AwardsJan 02, 2026
Jan Mohr, Couture’s ‘North Star,’ Dies at 71

Mohr had just retired in June after more than two decades as Couture’s retailer liaison.

Shekhar Shah Real Gems
SourcingJan 02, 2026
IDCA Elects New President, Board of Directors

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

Lalaounis good luck charm 2026
CollectionsJan 02, 2026
Lalaounis’ 2026 Good Luck Charm Speaks to Resilience

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

Collage of NationalJeweler.com’s most-read stories of 2025
EditorsDec 31, 2025
The Top 5 Stories of 2025

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

×

This site uses cookies to give you the best online experience. By continuing to use & browse this site, we assume you agree to our Privacy Policy