AGS jewellers must maintain an elevated standard of ethics and business conduct, which assures clients a high level of service, is delivered throughout the organisation. AGS CG’s must also maintain their standards and submit an annual questionnaire to ensure they continue their education and keep their designation. Not having these guidelines for the jeweller could dilute the public’s experience with AGS C.G.’s, which would diminish the value of all AGS qualifications and standards. I recommend you look into becoming an AGS jeweller, it’s the best way to appreciate what this designation will do for you, your associates and your clients. As an AGS jeweller you will be held in high esteem and it will convey a message good faith in your community.

I too am a displaced AGS member. I have earned by RJ, CG, and CGA titles from AGS and because I am working for a non-AGS firm I nor the company that I work for can use my titles. I attend the AGS comclave every year and keep my annual test up-to-date. It is a tough rule by I live with it.

The American Gem Society title, Certified Gemologist, is a professional credential. Meeting the minimum educational requirements for an AGS title is only the beginning. Equally important is a commitment to adhere to a code of ethics, meaningful annual on-going education and re-certification and the assurance that an organization like the AGS is monitoring compliance. Since your firm is not a member of the American Gem Society, we cannot confirm to the consumer that the AGS standards and practices are being met. The American Gem Society is a professional organization dedicated to protecting consumers by issuing meaningful professional credentials. Your employee has certainly met the educational requirements of Graduate Gemologist, but is no longer meeting the requirements for Certified Gemologist. If your firm is interested in membership in AGS, please visit our website at www.americangemsociety.org. Thank you, Ruth Batson CEO, American Gem Society.