American Gemological Laboratories has added Wendy Mayerson as senior staff gemologist. Mayerson, who spent the last 11 years at the Gemological Institute of America, first as an instructor and then as a gem identification expert, will focus on color-origin analysis and treatment detection—two of AGL’s cornerstone services.

“AGL built its reputation by pioneering full-disclosure grading reports for fine ruby, sapphire, and emerald in 1977,” says Cap Beesley, the lab’s founder and president. “Since then, the trade has come to depend on us for verification of gemstone origin. Wendy, who holds a B.S. degree in Geology from Colgate, deepens our expertise in this crucial area of market value.”

Mayerson will work with her former colleague at GIA, Christopher Smith, who recently joined AGL as vice president of Lab Operations.

AGL was acquired by Collectors Universe, Newport Beach, Calif., in 2006 and soon afterwards announced its Fast Track Program of gem identification reports for as little as $25 per stone. At the same time, it introduced its Prestige Program of detailed gemstone grading documents for fine gems.

JCK