Tom Moses, senior vice president, Gemological Institute of America Laboratory and Research, was awarded the eighth annual American Gem Society Triple Zero Award. The award, named for the highest diamond quality grade in AGS nomenclature, recognizes significant commitment to education as well as leadership in the industry.

Craig Underwood, president of AGS, presented the award to Moses during the AGS Circle of Distinction reception on July 31 in New York City. Moses was selected by a committee of industry leaders and past recipients.

“We are delighted to commemorate Tom for his remarkable accomplishments and contributions in gemology,” said Underwood. “He’s considered a global industry leader and continues to provide an exemplary record of service and knowledge to this industry. He also adheres to the highest standards of excellence and ethical principals of both GIA and AGS, thus making him a true representative of this award.” 

Moses has played a pivotal role in the Institute’s gem identification and research efforts. He has led groundbreaking studies of synthetic diamonds, HPHT-treated diamonds, diamond cut analysis, and Chinese freshwater cultured pearls. Through his lectures and articles, Moses has educated the industry on important gemological issues.

”Tom is vital to our organization as he carries a wealth of knowledge, vision and dedication that is unparalleled,” said Donna Baker, president of GIA. “Through his leadership to all of the GIA Laboratory and Research international operations, he has fostered our mission to provide the most innovative gemological research throughout the world.”  

Moses earned his Graduate Gemologist diploma in 1977 while working at GIA’s Santa Monica campus. In 1988, he transferred to the New York Laboratory and became a protégé of its longtime director, G. Robert Crowningshield. Moses was named vice president of Identification Services in 1988. Since being named to his current position in 2005, he oversees all GIA Laboratory and Research operations worldwide.

Moses also received GIA’s Richard T. Liddicoat Award for Distinguished Achievement, the Institute’s highest honor, in 2002.

JCK