The Accredited Gemologists Association (AGA) revised its Annual Tucson Conference to address GIA’s addition of a cut “grade” on diamond grading reports, and examine cut grading systems now used by AGS and a growing number of new labs.

The conference, which takes place during Gem Fair Week in Tucson, Ariz., will provide participants with what they need to know to be ready to apply procedures and standards that will result in grades consistent with the major labs when these new cut grades are introduced, and to be able to clearly and confidently explain it to their clients.

Program speakers include Al Gilbertson and Ilene Reinitz from GIA, Peter Yantzer from AGS, Richard Drucker from Gemworld International Laboratories, Don Palmieri from Gem Certification and Appraisal Lab, C.R. Beesley from American Gemlogical Laboratories, and Jean-Claude Chalain from the Swiss Gemological Institute (SSEF). Representatives from Sarin, GemEx, and OGI will also be present to demonstrate new technologies for measuring light performance.

A new feature of this year’s conference will be the “Late Breaking News Corner.” Sharrie Woodring and Dusan Simic from EGL-USA Research Group will share their latest findings pertaining to a new diamond treatment being used to transform off-color natural diamonds into fancy “red” and “pink” colors, and, specifically, on identification techniques. Participants will be able to see and examine some of these “red” and “pink” diamonds and discuss identification techniques with Sharrie and Dusan.

The AGA 2005 Conference will take place Feb. 2 at the Marriott University Park, 880 East 2nd Street, from 8:30 a.m. until 5:30 p.m. The conference will conclude with the Gala Dinner Dance and Presentation of the Sixth Annual Antonio Bonanno Award For Excellence in Gemology, beginning at 6:30.

For more information or to register for the conference or gala award dinner, contact Antoinette Matlins at amatlins@aol.com or call (802) 457-5145 in the USA, or Dana Richardson at danadesign@syptec.com or telephone (801) 581-9900 in the USA.

JCK