American Gem Society
The American Gem Society is a non-profit trade association of fine jewelry professionals dedicated to setting, maintaining and promoting the highest standards of ethical conduct and professional behavior through education, accreditation, recertification of its membership, gemological standards and gemological research.
As part of the commitment to on-going professional education, the AGS mandates that all of it's members and affiliates continue to study gems and jewelry. To maintain the education standards of the membership, the Society requires it's titleholders to re-ascertain their gemological knowledge by passing an annual re-certification examination. The AGS is respected all over the world for the knowledge and commitment that they represent. In addition, they are the consumer's guarantee that they are doing business with a knowledgeable and ethical business person.
Since its founding by Robert E. Shipley in 1934, the American Gem Society has been setting standards for excellence. It was Shipley's vision that the AGS standards would identify the jewelry industry's leaders - and his dream has come true. AGS members are among today's most successful firms, stores and individuals.
The American Gem Society has earned its reputation by focusing on two simple fundamentals: Education and Ethics. Both ultimately lead to consumer protection and confidence, and they also go hand-in-hand.
Education provides the fine jeweler with knowledge and helps to develop skills. Only by mastering the dizzying array of gemological information and techniques may a jewler be able to judge and help customers appreciate the value of the fine jewelry he carries.
Ethics establishes guidelines for conduct. The AGS provides its members with standards and practices essential for ethical jewelry professionalism. AGS jewlers are fair with customers and colleagues alike. They do not discredit others to better their reputation. Nor do they misrepresent products, prices or services through carelessness or lack of knowledge.
By shopping with a member of the AGS, you are guaranteed that you are doing business with jewelry professionals: a staff and store that is commited to on-going gemological training; customer service of the highest calibar; and above all, integrity.
