American Gemological Laboratories, a subsidiary of Collectors Universe, announced Friday that internationally renowned gem expert Chris Smith has joined the company as vice president and chief gemologist, effective immediately. Smith will be working closely with AGL’s president C.R. Cap Beesley. 

With twenty years experience in the gemstone industry, Smith comes to AGL to use his knowledge of gem identification, treatment analysis, and origin determination into the projected growth plan of the lab, AGL said in a statement.

Beesley said that he has spent the past year searching for a “strong partner” to co-pilot the lab to greater prominence in colored stone certification.” He said the decision to hire Smith came down to his comprehensive blend of gemological and executive skills.

“I needed a scientist that demonstrated management as well as gemological abilities,” Beesley said. “Chris Smith’s eleven years with the Gübelin Laboratory and eight years with GIA’s Gem Trade Laboratory bring to AGL the credentials and experience I was searching for.”

Beesley added, “Chris has a practical research and reporting approach that can make colored stone certification as important to the jewelry industry as diamond certification.”

Smith will concentrate on implementing an ambitious agenda of new services for AGL. 

“Research must result in products and services that are beneficial to the industry and consumers alike,” Smith said.

JCK