MajorsJun 16, 2026
5 Things to Know About the 2026 NBA Championship TrophyThe New York Knicks took home the Larry O'Brien Trophy crafted by Tiffany & Co.
OtherJan 11, 2016
AGA Releases Tucson Seminar Lineup
The Accredited Gemologists Association will host presentations in Tucson next month that examine the challenges facing the colored gemstone industry today.
San Diego--The Accredited Gemologists Association will host a day of presentations in Tucson next month that examine the challenges facing the colored gemstone industry today.
The AGA’s seminars are scheduled for Wednesday, Feb. 3 at the University Park Marriott in Tucson, during the city’s annual gem shows.
The lineup of speakers and their topics are as follows.
--Richard Hughes of Lotus Gemology will share his experiences after working with fine gems for 37 years. His presentation is “Forests and Trees---Ten Lessons in Gemology.”
--Daniel Nyfeler, managing director of the Gübelin Gem Lab in Switzerland, will provide attendees with an understanding of the research applications for LA-ICPMS (Laser Ablation Inductively Coupled Plasma Mass Spectrometry) technology, including a gem’s country of origin.
--Claire Mitchell, a senior instructor at the Gemmological Association of Great Britain, will focus on the hand-held spectroscope in Tucson. Her presentation will look at types, how it works and how to use it correctly to ensure reliable testing results, as well as briefly exploring other spectroscopy-based technology now available. Following her presentation will be a guided hands-on session.
--Andrew Cody of Cody Opal will present “The Astonishing World of Opals,” where he will discuss the various types, attributes and locations where these gemstones are found, as well as address the current demand and recent value increases in fine Australian opal.
--Arthur Groom of Eternity Natural Emerald will bring attendees up to speed on what other gems are now, and soon will be, enhanced through surface in-filling. He also will discuss the importance of disclosure at all levels. Samples will be available for hands-on examination.
--Marc Beverly, an expert rock and ice climber/instructor will give a look into the “Amazing Crystal Caves of Mexico,” where he faced life-threatening conditions at 1,000 feet underground to find football field-sized caverns containing 35-foot long crystals. Beverly explored the network of caves near Naica, Mexico with a team of scientists, learning more about not only the formations but also the life within the caves.
In addition, at the gala in the evening, the AGA will present research gemologist and mineralogist Cigdem Lule with the 2016 Antonio C. Bonanno Award for Excellence in Gemology.
Conference sessions are scheduled to take place between 8:30 a.m. and 4:45 p.m. Registration includes the sessions as well as continental breakfast, light lunch, a champagne reception and the gala awards banquet.
Interested parties have until Jan. 15 to register.
Editors' Picks
Sponsored by
Tickets are $195 for AGA members and $245 for non-members. Gala-only tickets are also available at $75 for members and $100 for non-members. More information can be found on AccreditedGemologists.org.
More on Other
The Latest
TrendsJun 16, 2026
Post-Vegas Jewelry Trend Report: Big Beads, Western Flair, White MetalsAssociate Editor Natalie Francisco lists the trends she spotted during Jewelry Market Week that will dominate the second half of 2026.
SourcingJun 16, 2026
GemGuide Updates Ruby PricesIts app now reflects increased prices for Mozambique ruby, as well as changes to its Burma ruby charts.
Brought to you by
Building the Future of Jewelry Retail: DCA Expands Education, Leadership Development, and Workforce SolutionsDCA is preparing the next generation of professionals by supporting workforce development, leadership growth, and career advancement.
MajorsJun 16, 2026
Sasha Primak Hires New Design DirectorThe manufacturer has tapped Alicia Arnold, the former director of custom design at Tiny Jewel Box.
Weekly QuizJun 11, 2026
This Week’s QuizTest your jewelry news knowledge by answering these questions.
IndependentsJun 15, 2026
DeBoulle Diamond & Jewelry to Renovate Dallas FlagshipThe revamped, elevated space will feature a two-story Patek Philippe atelier and a rooftop patio for parties.
WatchesJun 15, 2026
G-Shock, Coca-Cola Partner on Bottle-Inspired WatchThe special-edition piece marks the 140th anniversary of the iconic beverage brand.
Brought to you by
All Eyes on Gold Prices. Alternatives to Look For. And What to BEWARE of in VegasAs gold prices rise, today’s retailers are looking for alternatives at prices that will appeal to wider audiences.
TrendsJun 15, 2026
Amanda’s Style File: Tiny Charms Are TrendingHere are 13 small charms to inspire your layered looks this summer.
AuctionsJun 12, 2026
16th-Century ‘Hogback’ Diamond Ring Going Up for Auction in LondonFound by a metal detectorist, the ring likely belonged to a wealthy, possibly royal, owner, said Noonans.
CollectionsJun 12, 2026
Chouette Designs To Launch Collection Celebrating All Types of LoveOur Pride Month Piece of the Week, the “Margaux” ring, is part of the wife-and-wife team’s new “Lovestoned” collection.
Events & AwardsJun 12, 2026
CBG Announces Plans for Phoenix ShowThe group has named the keynote speaker and announced a new pavilion for its next event, which is slated for September.
EditorsJun 11, 2026
This Was the Best Animal Jewelry in Las Vegas From lions and hippos to snails and fish, Senior Editor Lenore Fedow wrangles her picks for cutest jewelry critters in Las Vegas.
SourcingJun 11, 2026
Grandview Klein, London Jewelers Partner To Cut 63-Carat RoughThe big stone will be fashioned into a 20.26-carat diamond in celebration of the retailer’s 100th anniversary this year.
MajorsJun 11, 2026
Former Cartier Creative Director To Head Chanel’s Jewelry Creation StudioMarie-Laure Cérède will join Chanel as the new director of its jewelry creation studio, starting in October.
Lab-GrownJun 11, 2026
Smiling Rocks’ ‘Wish Jar’ Generates 100+ Wishes in Las Vegas At the JCK show, the lab-grown diamond brand teamed up with Jewelers for Children to support Make-A-Wish India.
SourcingJun 11, 2026
Signet Jewelers Exec Joins Diamonds Do Good BoardIlana McCabe is Signet’s vice president of public relations and brand communications.
AuctionsJun 10, 2026
31.62-Carat ‘Azure Blue’ Diamond Sells For $8M+ at Christie’sIt was a banner day for blue gemstones, with another blue diamond topping $8 million and a 41-carat sapphire going for $2.3 million.
MajorsJun 10, 2026
Saks Global Receives Bankruptcy Court Approval for ReorganizationThe approval means the retailer is on track to exit bankruptcy proceedings this summer.
CrimeJun 10, 2026
2 Suspects Arrested in Texas Jewelry Store RobberyThe men are believed to be part of the group of several masked suspects that robbed Marc Robinson Jewelers in April.
CollectionsJun 10, 2026
Sylvie Debuts ‘Elevated’ Bridal Collection Inspired By Designer’s RingThe bridal-focused brand is also launching its Custom Atelier this summer, a digital custom design tool for its authorized retailers.
EditorsJun 09, 2026
Q&A: Al Cook on the Lab-Grown ‘Bubble,’ Dwindling Diamond Supply The De Beers Group CEO also discussed tariffs, Desert Diamonds, and the pending sale of De Beers in an interview with Michelle Graff.
MajorsJun 09, 2026
Wilkerson's Russ Whitehouse RetiresThe industry veteran is bringing his 56-year run in the fine jewelry sector to an end.
Events & AwardsJun 09, 2026
Pride Month Panel to Highlight LGBTQ+ Jewelry VoicesThe panel discussion will feature LGBTQ+ leaders across the jewelry, luxury, and creative industries.
CollectionsJun 09, 2026
Marie Lichtenberg’s New Capsule Collection Is a Smash, LiterallyInspired by a locket that got run over, the “Smash” capsule collection reimagines the shape of Lichtenberg’s signature style.
MajorsJun 09, 2026
Frederick Goldman Names Director of Sales for SoutheastThe company has promoted Katherine Whitacre to the role.
MajorsJun 08, 2026
Stuller Expands Selection of Lab-Grown Diamonds, Demi-Fine JewelryThe jewelry manufacturer has added Taylor Swift-esque diamond shapes, and more silver, gold vermeil, and gold-plated jewelry.
