Carlsbad, CA — Converge 2025, the collaborative event presented by the American Gem Society (AGS) and the Gemological Institute of America (GIA), promises to bring fresh perspective and unmatched expertise to the jewellery world this September 7–10 in Carlsbad, California.
The second day of the conference opens with two dynamic panel discussions.
The first, Thriving Through Change: Strategies for What’s Next, will tackle the evolving challenges of today’s marketplace and explore future opportunities. The distinguished panel includes Lisa Bridge, Governor, GIA Board of Governors; Martin Katz, Founder and CEO of Martin Katz, Ltd.; Olivia Landau, Founder and CEO of The Clear Cut; Colleen Rooney, Chief Corporate Affairs and Sustainability Officer at Signet Jewelers; and Wesley Tucker, CEO of Tracr. The session will be guided by Professor David Ager of Harvard Business School.
Following this, Legends of Gemology brings together four of GIA’s most iconic figures — John Koivula, Shane McClure, Tom Moses, and Dr. James Shigley — who together share nearly two centuries of expertise. They will reflect on their groundbreaking work, discoveries, and the evolution of gemology at GIA. Susan Jacques, GIA Strategic Advisor and former President and CEO, will lead the discussion.
This gathering recalls a historic moment from the 1999 GIA International Gemological Symposium, where legendary names such as Richard T. Liddicoat and G. Robert Crowningshield shared their insights with the industry. Converge 2025 builds on that legacy, offering participants a rare opportunity to learn from both present-day innovators and timeless authorities.