Sponsored by RapNet
AGA Releases Details for Virtual Conference
It will feature four gemological education sessions over two days, Feb. 16 and 17, 2021.
San Diego—Following the news it will postpone granting the 2021 Bonanno Award due to the ongoing pandemic, the Accredited Gemologists Association has released details about its virtual conference.
The event is scheduled for Feb. 16 and 17, 2021, and will be comprised of four gemological education sessions over the two days held from 8:30 to 11 a.m. PST.
Attendees can register for both days or single-day sessions.
Expert speakers will cover such topics as a global update on the diamond marketplace, insights into gem pegmatites and their related mineralogy and gemology, results of experimental heat treatments of corundum, and a first-hand account of attending Myanmar’s annual trading emporium for gems.
“Although we are unable to meet in person for our annual Tucson conference this coming February, AGA is excited to host the 2021 AGA Virtual Conference and to deliver the top-notch gemological education experience that our members and the industry look forward to attending each year,” AGA President Teri Brossmer said.
“No matter the obstacle, AGA remains committed to providing educational opportunities to our network of loyal AGA members and gem enthusiasts who invest in their knowledge and shape the future of gemology. We look forward to bringing folks together again and hope you will join us.”
Event registration and additional conference details will be released soon.
AGA announced late last month it would forego the presentation of the 2021 Antonio C. Bonanno Award for Excellence in Gemology, the presentation of which is usually held at an award ceremony during the annual AGA Tucson conference coinciding with the gem shows.
The AGA membership will, instead, vote for finalists in October 2021 from the list of nominees submitted earlier this year; there will be no call for nominees next year.
The presentation of the next recipient is slated for the February 2022 AGA conference, and the normal award process will resume after that.
The Latest

Investment firm Enhanced Retail Funding, a division of Gordon Brothers, was the successful bidder.

It explores the history of the iconic tagline and the company’s strategy to redefine the role of diamonds in society.

Criminals are using cell jammers to disable alarms, but new technology like JamAlert™ can stop them.

Retail veteran Sindhu Culas has stepped into the role.


Taylor Burgess, who has been at Stuller since 2013, was promoted to the newly created role.

Was 2025 a good year for jewelers? Did lab-grown diamonds outsell natural? Find out on the first episode of the “My Next Question” podcast.

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

Whether you recognize their jewels or are just discovering them now, these designers’ talent and vision make them ones to watch this year.

Buyers are expected to gravitate toward gemstones that have a little something special, just like last year.

Plus, JSA’s Scott Guginsky discusses the need for jewelers to take more precautions as the gold price continues to climb.

Morris’ most cherished role was being a mother and grandmother, her family said.

“Vimini” is the first chapter of the “Bulgari Eternal” collection that merges archival pieces with modern creations.

The third edition will be held in Half Moon Bay, California, in April.

The grant is in its first year and was created to recognize an exceptional fine jewelry designer whose star is on the rise.

Data built on trust, not tracking, will be key to success going forward, as the era of “borrowed attention” ends, Emmanuel Raheb writes.

Heath Yarges brings two decades of experience to the role.

Pete’s boundless curiosity extended beyond diamond cut and he was always eager to share his knowledge with others, no matter the topic.

Cartier, Van Cleef & Arpels, Buccellati, and Vhernier had another successful holiday season, Richemont reported this week.

Our Piece of the Week is Lagos’ “Bee” brooch that was seen on the red carpet for the first time on Sunday.

Trevor Jonathan Wright led a crew in a string of armed robberies targeting South Asian-owned jewelry stores on the East Coast.

The program recognizes rising professionals in the jewelry industry.

A new lifestyle section and a watch showcase have been added to this year’s event.

Avocados From Mexico is celebrating those who love to double-dip in game day guacamole with a 14-karat yellow gold tortilla chip necklace.

Petra Diamonds unearthed the 41.82-carat, Type IIb blue diamond at the Cullinan Mine.

The brand is trading its colorful fabric cords for Italian leather in its “Lasso” baby locket bracelets.

National Jeweler and Jewelers of America’s popular webinar series is evolving in 2026.






















