The Gemological Institute of America (GIA) and the American Gem Society (AGS) will hold the “Converge” event in Carlsbad from September 7 to 10, 2025. This initiative brings together the traditional AGS Conclave and the GIA Symposium into a single technical and scientific event for professionals and specialists in the gemology sector.
“Converge” is the result of a formal collaboration between GIA and AGS, two leading entities in gemological research and education worldwide, aiming to provide a shared platform for professional growth and the exchange of specialized knowledge.
The event is hosted at GIA’s Carlsbad campus and the Omni La Costa Resort. The agenda covers a wide range of topics and combines educational sessions focused on research, hands-on diagnostic activities, specialized workshops, and networking opportunities for industry professionals. Among the countless initiatives on the agenda, from which it is very difficult to single out just a few, the following are worth mentioning: a Harvard Business School Experience workshop (“Common Purpose – Resilience, Relevance, and Renewal”); local excursions such as whale watching, tastings, and guided tours of mineral sites; guided tours of GIA laboratories and facilities. The program will also showcase the latest advances in gemological research, with sessions dedicated to innovation, sustainability, and technology applied to gemological analysis.
Converge offers several registration options: a full-event pass costs $1,425, and single-day passes start at $525. Two-day and guest passes are also available, with registration open until maximum capacity is reached. Full details on registration can be found on ConvergeEvent.com, the official website.
This joint format is designed to provide new insights into essential topics in contemporary gemology, including advanced material characterization, the current state of international regulations, the integration of new technologies in analytical processes, and the advancement of specialized education. The presence of international speakers encourages scientific dialogue among professionals from various segments of the jewelry industry.
