The ASA International Appraisal Conference, being held Aug. 7-10 in Austin, Texas, will have a number of educational offerings and networking opportunities.

Among the educational opportunities and events:

* A hands-on diamond-grading session with a discussion by gemologist Cap Beesley.

* War stories from valuation experts Join J. Michael Clarkson, ASA, Technical Valuation Services Inc. and Jeffrey A. Hutton, ASA, Arthur Lloyd LLC.

* A tour of the Harry Ransom Humanities Research Center at the University of Texas.

* A presentation of proposed changes to USPAP and their potential effects on appraisers, the appraisal process and appraisal report writing by members of the Appraisal Standards Board.

Those who register by July 7 could win three complimentary room nights at the Hilton Austin Hotel, or dinner for two at Finn & Porter fine dining restaurant at the same hotel.

To register, go to http://www.appraisers.org/conferences.

JCK