AGS Confluence 2026 to Focus on AI, Sustainability, and Market Trends

The American Gem Society (AGS) will host its annual virtual conference, Confluence 2026, on Wednesday, April 22, offering a half-day program packed with practical education for jewelry professionals. The event, running from 10 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Pacific Time, will delve into key topics shaping the industry, including artificial intelligence, sustainability, and the current state of the market.

Key Educational Sessions

Confluence 2026 features three core sessions led by industry experts, designed to provide actionable insights that can be applied immediately. Presenting Sponsor for the event is the Gemological Institute of America (GIA).

AI in Jewelry Design: Michael Magee, Senior Subject Specialist in Jewelry Manufacturing Arts Research & Development at GIA, will present ‘Beyond the Prompt: What’s New in AI Design for 2026’. This session will explore the practical applications of generative AI tools in concepting, merchandising, client communication, and regulatory compliance. Magee, an award-winning CAD designer with over 25 years of industry experience, will cover what AI can and cannot do for professionals today, including a look at 2D tools and emerging labeling requirements.

Communicating Responsibility: Brandee Dallow, Chief Communications and Sustainability Officer at Grandview Klein Diamond Group, will lead ‘Communicating Responsibility with Clarity and Credibility’. Dallow’s presentation will offer a framework for businesses to effectively communicate their responsible sourcing, sustainability, and ethical practices in a clear and consumer-friendly manner. The session emphasizes transparency and progress over perfection, guiding attendees on how to evaluate supply chains and translate complex information into trustworthy language for customers.

Boosting Diamond Sales: Grace Isley, Head of Retail Strategy & Partnerships at the Natural Diamond Council (NDC), will present ‘Turning Diamond Knowledge into Sales: Free, On-Demand Training with NDC’s Diamond Learning Center’. This session will guide participants through NDC’s free, self-paced training platform, designed to enhance diamond storytelling, improve customer interactions, and ultimately increase natural diamond sales. The platform features short-form videos and modular learning, suitable for both new and experienced staff.

Industry Insights and Community Engagement

Moderated by Rob Bates, Founder and News Director at The Jewelry Wire, the ‘Hot Topics in the Jewelry Industry’ panel will provide a comprehensive overview of current retail and wholesale trends, global influences, and economic factors impacting the market. Panelists include Johanna Levy of GIA, Morgan Waters of Stuller, Sara Yood of the Jewelers Vigilance Committee, and Abe Sherman of Buyers Intelligence Group. Together, they will offer a broad perspective on the industry’s current landscape.

In addition to the main sessions, Confluence 2026 will feature bonus content on sustainability and the debut of AGS's ‘Members Teaching Members’ series. This new series will showcase real-world strategies and business insights shared by AGS members.

Event Format and Registration

Confluence 2026 is designed as a virtual, half-day event to offer timely education without requiring professionals to leave their stores or offices. While sessions are pre-recorded for optimal content delivery, speakers will participate in live Q&A sessions, creating an interactive experience. Attendees can also engage with peers through live group chats, fostering community connection.

Registration is free for AGS members, supported by GIA’s sponsorship. Non-members interested in attending can contact [email protected] for more information. The event content will be available on-demand through July 31. For further details and registration, visit the AGS Confluence website at ags.org/confluence.