The 2026 American Gem Society Conclave recognized industry leaders across gemology, law enforcement, and jewelry education at its annual awards ceremony in Las Vegas. Three major honors were presented during the September 16 keynote session, followed by the Young Titleholder of the Year award and scholarships for emerging professionals. The Sallie Morton Award, given for scientific contributions to gemology, went to Guy Borenstein, Director of Gemological Research and Lab Services at Stuller Inc.
Amanda Coleman-Phelps, Chair of the International Guild Council, praised his work on lab-grown diamond screening, calling his expertise “invaluable” to AGS members. Borenstein’s research has focused on distinguishing synthetic diamonds from natural stones, a growing challenge in the industry. The Guild of the Year award honored the Chicago Guild for its leadership in education and member engagement. In 2025 alone, the guild hosted five events drawing 126 attendees, including partners like the GIA Alumni Collective and the Black in Jewelry Coalition. Coleman-Phelps highlighted the guild’s role in expanding AGS’s network, particularly through collaborations with ethical jewelry initiatives.
Law enforcement received recognition with the John J. Kennedy Award, presented to Special Agent Raul Perez of the Florida Department of Law Enforcement. Perez, who has worked with the Jewelers’ Security Alliance for decades, was honored for his 49-year career assisting agencies in jewelry-related investigations. On September 17, Troy Underwood, Vice President of Underwoods Fine Jewelers, was named Young Titleholder of the Year. Courtney Sivard, Chair of the Young Titleholders Committee, noted his commitment to service, both in the industry and his Northwest Arkansas community.
The event also expanded access to the Conclave through scholarships. The Black in Jewelry Coalition partnered with the Young Titleholders Committee to fund a registration for Suzanne Dunn of Suzanne Dunn Jewelry. Additionally, eight young professionals, Roxane Bhot, Anthony DeLuca, Zoie Moller, Sarah Reilly, Anya Slovenkai, Heather Stout Svanidze, Gabrielle Stumbo, and Allison Voss, received complimentary registrations, ensuring broader representation at the conference. Sponsors Jewelers Mutual Group and the Gemological Institute of America (GIA) played key roles in sustaining the event, which draws members for networking and professional development.
