August 18, 2022

Confluence is just a few days away on Monday, August 22! Haven’t registered yet? There’s still time! Visit AGS.org/Confluence. Bonus: All Confluence registrants can access the recorded sessions until November 22, 2022. We’ve got one more speaker we’d like you to hear from—our closing keynote, Tony Perzow! Take a few moments to hear his special message for the AGS community. But Wait—There’s More! After the sessions, stick around for another half hour and have some virtual fun! Join us for two lively sessions where you can meet with fellow members. Beverages & Banter 12:15 p.m.–12:45 p.m. PT Join Sarah Person,

Michael Schofield, RS, traveled extensively early in his adult life. His experiences have allowed him to observe the historical importance of ornamentation represented in different cultures and their use of beautiful gemstones and precious metals. He began to share these lessons with others, deepening his understanding of fine gems and jewelry. He earned his Graduate Gemologist® degree in residence at GIA, which opened up more opportunities for him in the industry. This led to Michael developing lasting relationships with suppliers and customers worldwide. Michael Schofield, RS, owner of Michael Schofield & Co. Throughout the years, Michael received some memorable words

By Jewelers Mutual® Group You’ve heard a lot of buzz about the American Gem Society member hub on the Zing® Marketplace. Its exclusive shipping discounts were mentioned at Conclave in April, but the marketplace has many other powerful tools to streamline and grow your business. Creating appraisals leveraging the expertise of Gemworld is an example of one that has improved the way hundreds of other jewelers serve their customers. The Jewelry Appraisal Solution makes increasing revenue, pleasing customers, and exciting employees easier than ever before. Here are three reasons why appraising with this tool is an easy decision. 1. The

American Gem Society members are guaranteed special promotional rates every quarter on the American Gem Society Credit Card Program through Wells Fargo, in addition to Quarterly Rebates. Take advantage of this special retail financing program! Jewelry dealers on the American Gem Society financing program pay only 2.80% before volume rebates for the No Interest if Paid in Full Within 12 Months financing plan from 08/27/2022–9/25/2022. Pay as low as 1.90% after quarterly rebates! Call for details to ensure you are getting the highest rebate with a term agreement with Wells Fargo. For more information, contact Amanda Howe at 515.985.0155 or

By Jeremy McLendon, JewelersHealthCare.com Businesses of all sizes have different needs and pain points—some are more common than others. For small businesses, however, reaching a solution to these may not be so simple. In fact, due to limited resources, the list of needs may look a little different than those of a big corporation. Additionally, the way these demands are tackled will undoubtedly require another route. So, what are a few of the most important needs for small business owners? A Mission Any successful organization has a guiding principle, motivation, and a mission. A mission statement gives business owners the