Ground-breaking Gemological Conferences

Where gemologists from around the globe gather to share discoveries, discuss theories, and forge lifelong relationships.

  • Sunset in Tuscon, Arizona overlooking the city lights.

    Tuscon Conference & Gala 2024 celebrating AGA’s 50th Anniversary

    $125 - $350

    Join us in commemorating a sparkling milestone as AGA proudly celebrates its 50th Anniversary at the much-anticipated 2024 Tucson Gemological Conference and Gala in Tucson, Arizona

  • Desert sunset in Tucson, Arizona.

    Tuscon Conference & Gala 2023

    We are excited to bring our global community together again for a day of education and celebration at the 2023 AGA Tucson Conference and Gala.

Awesome Webinars

From rare gems and new finds to treatments, technology, and gem lore, experts in the field share their knowledge to keep you at the top of your gemological game.

  • Continuity and Disruption? The Evolution of the Global Trade in Natural Pearls presented by Sona Tajiryan, Ph.D.

    FREE

    Embark on a fascinating journey through the annals of natural pearl trade history. Dr. Tajiryan, drawing parallels with the current world of high-end pearl trade, unravels the allure of natural pearls spanning thousands of years. From the Persian Gulf to the Pacific waters, discover the impact of historical disruptions and the enduring appreciation for these luminous treasures.

    View Recording
  • Fit for A King By Clare Blatherwick

    FREE

    The world witnessed history being made on May 6th, 2023 when King Charles III was crowned in London. In this presentation, Clare Blatherwick looks at the Coronation Regalia used on that day (as well as some of the jewels left out of the ceremony – and the reasons why), focusing on the symbolism of the pieces as well as their history and design.

    View Recording
  • All You Need To Know About Saltwater Pearls By Joshua Israileff

    FREE

    Joshua Israileff delivers a captivating presentation focused on the formation and cultivation of saltwater pearls. As a second-generation co-owner of ASBA USA, Inc, a pearl wholesale company with over 40 years of experience selling Tahitian, South Sea, and Japanese Akoya pearls, Joshua has witnessed tremendous growth and change in pearl farming and the industry, including pollution and warming temperatures in the waters that are home to the pearl beds. 

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  • Amber From Myanmar, “Burmite” by Alex Leung, FGC, GIA GG

    FREE

    The estimated 98 million-year-old Burmese amber is a time capsule of the Cretaceous period, preserving many organisms now believed to be extinct. Burmite is important to the scientific communities and is also highly sought after by collectors drawn to its diverse inclusions and array of colors. 

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  • Behind Tomorrow’s Heirlooms by Derek Katzenbach

    FREE

    Pull back the curtain, and peek into the world of a highly skilled craftsman as he creates tomorrow’s heirlooms. Derek Katzenberg shares his experience in custom jewelry design, from faceting manufacturing with an emphasis on ethical sourcing, and American-mined gemstones.

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  • History, Legend, and Lore of Sapphires from Yogo Gulch, Montana by Dr. Aaron Palke

    FREE

    Discover the history, legend, and lore of one of North America’s most important gem deposits, the Yogo Sapphire Mine in central Montana. Learn to distinguish highly sought-after Yogo sapphires from other similar sapphires based on their chemical and gemological properties.

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  • Crime and Crime Prevention – The New Normal in the Gem and Jewelry World by Kelly Ross

    FREE

    From store losses to frauds and online attacks, the spectrum of criminal activities is broad, and the impact far-reaching. Former police officer Kelly Ross examines various loss types, investigational challenges and discusses risk mitigation and preventative measures that jewelers can employ.

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  • sapphire intersection

    This is AGA

    FREE

    Learn who we are and how AGA can benefit your gemological career.

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  • Rare Gemstones – The Other 175 by John Bradshaw

    FREE

    Of the 5500 described mineral species, approximately 200 have been faceted. Only about 25 of those are used for jewelry purposes.  What about the other 175?  John covers some of the rarer gemstones in the jewelry market.

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  • Gentlemen’s Jewels: Ottoman and Mughal Royal Jewels by Claire Morgan, Ph.D.

    FREE

    The most important jewels prized by 16th century Ottomans and 17th century Mughals were emblems of power and wealth worn only by royal men; the sultans, and the emperors. Learn the differences between Ottoman and Mughal royal jewels and the social significance of gems and jewelry within these societies.

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Celebrity Gemologist Interviews

Get up close and personal with giants in the gemological community. Discover what inspires and drives them and hear their vision for the future of gemology.

  • Dr. James Shigley headshot.

    Celebrity Interview: Jim Shigley

    FREE

    Explore the world of gemstone identification, mineral formation, and the intricate characterization of gem materials in this exclusive conversation with Dr. Jim Shigley, GIA’s Distinguished Research Fellow, and 2008 AGA Bonanno Award Recipient, interviewed by Dona Dirlam, former GIA Library Director, and AGA Lifetime Achievement Award Recipient.

    View Recording
  • John Koivula headshot.

    Celebrity Interview: John Koivula

    FREE

    Join in a conversation between friends and colleagues as Richard Hughes interviews the legendary microscopist, author, and photographer John Koivula. John was honored with the AGA Antonio C. Bonanno Award for Excellence in Gemology in 2002.

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  • Antoinette Maitlins headshot.

    Celebrity Interview: Antoinette Bonanno Matlins

    FREE

    A lightning rod in the gemology world for decades, AGA Bonanno Award recipient Antoinette Bonanno Matlins reflects on her life as an author, educator, and lecturer, dedicating her gemological career to promoting and upholding the highest ethics in the gem and jewelry industry. 

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Career Forums

Learn what you can do with your gemology through insight and advice from gemologists with thriving careers in diverse facets of gemology.

  • Headshots of presenters: Rita-Livia Erikson, Adam Parker, and Derek Katzenbach.

    What can you do with your gemology? Jewelry, Art, and Gemology

    FREE

    You are a qualified gemologist with a passion for gemstones, jewelry, and lapidary. Can your passion turn you into a multifaceted artist and a unique businessperson? AGA explored the possibilities and found the right people to ask this very question for you. Join us in our next “What Can You Do With Your Gemology” career forum to meet these passionate young artists, listen to their stories, and learn from them.

    Register Now
  • Headshots of presenters: Eric Braunwart, Dr. Laurent Cartier, and Patricia Inonge Mweene.

    What can you do with your gemology? Responsible Gem & Jewelry Trade

    FREE

    Uncover the dynamics of the Responsible Gem and Jewelry Trade and explore gemological career options as our panelists share their boots on the ground experience in this critical and developing facet of the gem and jewelry industry. 

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  • Headshots of panelists: Dr. Raquel Alonso-Perez, Dorothy Asher, and McKenzie Santimer.

    What Can You Do With Your Gemology? Gemology in Museums

    FREE

    Our panel of esteemed Museum Directors, Curators, and Researchers pull back the curtain on curating exhibitions that engage and inspire visitors and students through gemology and jewelry arts lenses. 

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  • Headshots of presenters: Orasa Weldon, Danny Sanchez, and Jeff Mason.

    Jeff Mason

    FREE

    Widely respected for their ability to capture the beauty of fine gemstones and jewelry in their photographs, our gemologist panelists share their experience in the art of gemstone and jewelry photography.

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  • Heashots of panetlists: Robert Weldon, Gary Roskin, and Brendan Laurs.

    What Can You Do With Your Gemology? Careers in Gemological Publication

    FREE

    This AGA Career Forum features a panel of gemologists who are giants in the world of gemological publications. Learn more about the field and their passion for writing about gems and jewelry.

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  • Headshots of presenters: E. Billie Hughes, Sarah Caldwell Steele, and Wim Vertriest.

    What Can You Do With Your Gemology? Research Gemologists

    FREE

    Through travel to exotic gem locations and detailed analysis in the laboratory, the gemological researchers on our panel strive to uncover the secrets hidden in gems. Find out more about what it takes to be a research gemologist.

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  • Headshots of panelists: Adrian Smith, Stuart Robertson, Jill Burgum, and Jill Burgum.

    What Can You Do With Your Gemology?

    FREE

    The options for careers in gemology are limited only by your imagination. Our panelists are all highly successful gemologists performing various essential jobs within the gemological community. Join in and explore where your gemology may take you.

    View Recording

Frequently asked Questions

Everything you need to know about AGA Events. If you have further questions, please contact us.

Yes, AGA Sponsors are encouraged to demonstrate their products and services at vendor tables available during live conferences. Reservations for vendor tables must be made in advance.

Attendance at AGA gemological conferences is growing with 140 people registered to attend the live 2023 Tucson conference and 20 more registered for the recorded conference sessions. 180 people registered for the Gala Dinner-Dance following the live conference in Tucson.

Yes, AGA conferences are open to everyone. Registration discounts are a benefit of membership.

AGA-hosted webinars are presented live exclusively to AGA Members. Recordings of the AGA-hosted webinars are available to everyone.