The American Gem Society will host the third annual Circle of Distinction Dinner, Tuesday, July 30 at the Rainbow Room in New York City to honor individuals that have demonstrated impeccable service and made a lasting contribution to the jewelry industry, AGS officials said.

“We are very pleased to honor and celebrate the achievements of our colleagues on this special night,” said Ruth Batson, AGS’ Interim CEO. “The contributions made by this year’s honorees have been tremendous to the continued growth and development of the jewelry industry, as well as the American Gem Society.”

The AGS honors Michael D. Roman as the 2002 AGS Lifetime Achievement Award winner. Roman has worked for Gruen and Bulova watch companies. In 1976, he became executive director of Jewelers of America and over the next twenty years Roman helped build the organization to one of the largest trade associations in the industry. He has received numerous awards and accolades for his skills in sales and marketing, as well as serving as a board member on numerous committees and charities.

In addition, the AGS will honor several Triple Zero Award winners, signifying the highest grade a diamond can receive in AGS nomenclature. The AGS Triple Zero Awards will be presented to members of the jewelry industry for their accomplishments and contributions. The 2002 recipients are as follows: William E. Boyajian, president of GIA, Ralph Destino of Cartier, Inc., Richard Krementz of Richard Krementz Gemstones and Harold Tivol of Tivol, Inc.

The Circle of Distinction Benefactors are also recognized on this evening. Medallions are presented to each of the Benefactors to represent their contributions to the Society’s Partnership for Excellence campaign, which funds the AGS Campus Expansion project.

JCK