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The AI-Powered Jewelry Store: Build a Private, No-Code AI Knowledgebase and Training Agent for Your Store
Andrea HillAug. 21
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From Repairs to Relationships: Building Profit, Loyalty, and Trust in Your Shop
Jonathan GellerAug. 21
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Historical Diamond Cut Identification, Dating, and Valuation in Appraisal Practice
Gail Brett LevineAug. 21
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AI-Powered Workflows: Using Claude to Streamline Key Retail Processes
Andrea HillAug. 21
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Succession Planning: Today's Profits, Tomorrow's Exit Strategy
Sherry Smith (The Retail Smiths), Chuck Frey (Charles Frey Co.)Aug. 21
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Legal Knowledge for a Stronger Store: A Practical Refresher for Retail Jewelers
Liz Fraccaro, Esq., CAMSAug. 21
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The Outsider Advantage: What Jewelry Retailers Can Learn from Entertainment & Lifestyle Brands
Erin Moyer-CarballeaAug. 21
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Onboarding: Making Those New Hires "Stick"
Dayna BrownAug. 21
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AI in Jewelry: Accelerating Design, Visualization, and Marketing
Mike MageeAug. 21
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Reading the Market: Gold, Diamonds, and the Economy Heading Into Q4
Paul Zimnisky, Rob Bates, Dave Siminski, Sherry Smith. Moderated by Andrea HillAug. 21
Event RetailFusion Fall 2026
starts on
Aug 21, 2026, 9:00:00 AM
(US/Eastern)
State of the Industry: Coffee, Bagels & Big Ideas
Location: Cobb Ballroom E
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8/21/26, 8:00 AM
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8/21/26, 9:00 AM
(US/Eastern)
(1 hour)
Rob Bates, Dave Siminski, Peter Smith, Ross Wesdorp
Rob Bates, Dave Siminski, Peter Smith, Ross Wesdorp

Join us for a high-impact, forward-looking exploration of the critical forces shaping the jewelry trade today. The session kicks off with an exclusive, intimate Fireside Chat featuring Rob Bates, one of the industry's most respected journalists and observers. Rob will share his bird's-eye view of macro market dynamics, shifting consumer behaviors, and the key stories defining our industry this year.
Following the chat, the stage expands into a dynamic, multi-disciplinary panel discussion. Moderated by Andrea Hill, this session brings together three of the industry’s most trusted authorities to dissect the day-to-day realities of running a jewelry business in a volatile economic landscape:
- Dave Siminski (Metals Expert) will break down precious metals trends, supply chain pressures, and raw material strategies.
- Peter Smith (Retail Expert) will deliver practical retail insights on clienteling, store performance, and capturing modern consumer interest.
- Ross Wesdorp (Manufacturing & General Expert) will draw on his deep production background and leadership as SJTA President to address domestic manufacturing, technology adoption, and operational resilience.
Whether you are a store owner looking to protect your cash flow, a designer scaling a line, or a production professional optimizing your shop, this session delivers the collaborative, real-world intelligence you need to lead your business with confidence