The Fellow Award, an annual award of distinction recognizing outstanding contributions and service to the jewelry profession, the American Gem Society, and the recipient’s community, was bestowed upon eight AGS titleholders at International Conclave on April 10.

The following AGS titleholders received the Fellow Award in 2008: Serge Boro, Vintage Registered Supplier, formerly of Lazare Kaplan; Marcelia Cruz-Hicks, Certified Gemologist, Diaco Diamonds, Inc.; Susan Jaime, Registered Jeweler, Ben Bridge Jeweler; Gary J. Long, Registered Jeweler, Gary J. Long Jewelers; Gene Spratford, Registered Jeweler, Spratford Fine Jewelry; Rick Velayo, Certified Gemologist Appraiser, Gleim the Jeweler; Harton Wolf, Certified Gemologist Appraiser, Henne Jewelers; and Cos Altobelli, Certified Gemologist Appraiser, The Altobelli Jewelers.

The Fellow Award was created out of a need to recognize a number of Society members, as opposed to the singular recognition of the Robert M. Shipley Award. Nominations for the Fellow Award are accepted from AGS members, with nominees and supporting materials being reviewed by the Fellows Committee. Supporting materials include nominee’s accomplishments in areas for which Fellowship is bestowed, including: gemology, education, administration, philanthropy, community service, and service to the profession. In addition to the Fellow Award, the Senior Fellow is bestowed on all former Fellow Award winners following their seventieth birthday. The Senior Fellow designation is a lifelong designation also awarded annually at International Conclave.

“Fellow Award recipients are individuals who have demonstrated a commitment to high ideals and purpose. And as such, they should be recognized before their peers in celebration of their achievements,” said Ruth Batson, Executive Director and CEO of the American Gem Society. “The Society and the jewelry industry at large are fortunate to be in the company of such an accomplished group of people.”

JCK