Someone Please Explain This to Me: My AGS Employees Receive No Recognition Because My Store is Not a Member of AGS?
I hired some very educated staff members and I am very excited to promote their knowledge to my customers—so I asked Lisa how she prefers her titles to appear on her business cards. Lisa is a C.G. (Certified Gemologist from American Gem Society) and a G.G. (Graduate Gemologist from the Gemological Institute of America).
Lisa explained to me that she cannot have her C.G. title printed on her business cards, she can’t tell any of our customers, and she cannot advertise this. Naturally, I asked why? She explained to me, “It is in AGS’s bylaws also known as their membership guide.” “Well,” I said, “That still doesn’t explain why.” She went on to tell me that we are not an AGS store, and AGS is an organization versus GIA is an education place—and so forth.
This still doesn’t explain why? AGS promotes their educational programs as well as GIA. I am so proud of her and I want my customers to know. So, to all AGS members—I think this rule is absolutely absurd and I want to know why?
Ruth Batson commented:
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.
Bob Hoskins commented:
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.
Julian, Des Moines IA commented:
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.
