The “capital of Latin America” is the ideal setting for the AGS Conclave’s spicy speaker lineup

The balmy temps and easy beach access may prove distracting to attendees at the American Gem Society International Conclave April 25–30 at the Doral Golf Resort & Spa in Miami. But as a key educational and networking event for AGS member stores, which include some of the nation’s better retail outfits—think Calhoun’s Jewelers in Royersford, Pa., and Lacy & Co. in El Paso, Texas—a reliable roster of speakers should more than make up for keeping everyone indoors.

Professional keynote speaker/emcee Patricia Fripp will preside over a lineup that includes author Kevin Carroll (What’s Your Red Rubber Ball?) and Mark Kelly, U.S. astronaut and husband of former congresswoman Gabrielle Giffords. Adam Graham of the AGTA will discuss the promotion of colored gemstones and cultured pearls, and JCK senior editor Rob Bates will delve into retail jewelry store issues in a day 1 session. Plus, new designs from Hearts On Fire, Eli Jewels, and more will be displayed in a fashion show and product gallery.

Bob Moeller, president of Minneapolis jeweler R.F. Moeller, will attend with seven coworkers—the most his store has ever taken. “Times have changed, and the only way you’re going to compete is through education,” he says. “We need to be sharper, smarter, and do more with less.” 

They’ll all make time to see Bryan Moeller, assistant manager at the Edina, Minn., location, address his peers in “Titles and Credibility,” a session on credentials. “I’ll be interested to see how he puts lessons he’s been taught into play,” says Bob of the nephew he helped train.