Reliable, And Known Worldwide
The American Gem Society (AGS) is a non-profit trade association of jewelers, diamond dealers, and other professionals in the jewelry industry. It was founded in 1934 with the mission of promoting ethical and professional standards in the jewelry industry and advancing the knowledge and understanding of gemology.
One of the primary functions of the AGS is to provide diamond grading and certification services. The AGS laboratory is known for its rigorous and objective diamond grading standards, which are based on a comprehensive evaluation of a diamond’s 4Cs (carat weight, color, clarity, and cut), as well as additional criteria such as fluorescence and light performance. The AGS grading scale is similar to that of other grading organizations, with grades ranging from 0 to 10 for cut, and from 0 to 10 for color and clarity.
In addition to diamond grading, the AGS also provides education and training programs for jewelers and other industry professionals. The AGS offers a variety of courses and certifications in gemology, jewelry sales, and business management, as well as an annual Conclave conference that brings together industry professionals from around the world.
A High Code Of Ethics
The AGS is also known for its Code of Ethics, which outlines a set of principles and standards for ethical business practices in the jewelry industry. Members of the AGS are required to adhere to these principles, which include honesty and integrity in all dealings, accurate and truthful advertising and promotion, and a commitment to continuous education and improvement.
Overall, the AGS is a respected and influential organization in the jewelry industry, known for its commitment to ethical business practices, rigorous diamond grading standards, and dedication to education and professional development. Consumers can be confident in purchasing diamonds that have been certified by the AGS, as they can be assured of the quality and integrity of the diamond grading process.
The History of AGS
The founding members of the AGS were a group of independent jewelers who believed that there was a need for an organization that could provide unbiased, accurate information to consumers about the quality and value of diamonds and other precious gems. The AGS Laboratories began grading diamonds in 1937, and quickly gained a reputation for accuracy and consistency in their grading reports.
Throughout the 1940s and 1950s, the AGS continued to expand its focus to include education and research in addition to grading and certification. The organization established a scholarship program to support students pursuing careers in the jewelry industry, and began offering educational courses and seminars for members.
In the 1960s and 1970s, the AGS experienced significant growth, with membership increasing from a few hundred to several thousand. During this time, the organization also began to establish relationships with other industry groups, including the Jewelers of America and the Gemological Institute of America.
In the 1980s and 1990s, the AGS continued to focus on expanding its educational programs and promoting consumer protection. The organization launched a consumer protection initiative called “Jewelers Vigilance,” which aimed to prevent fraud and misrepresentation in the jewelry industry. The AGS also began to expand its certification programs to include other gems besides diamonds, such as colored gemstones and pearls.
Today, the American Gem Society remains a leading organization in the jewelry industry, with a focus on promoting ethical and professional standards, consumer protection, and education. The AGS continues to offer a range of certification and grading services, and has established a reputation for accuracy and consistency in its evaluations. The organization is also known for its commitment to sustainability and environmental responsibility, and has developed programs to promote responsible sourcing and manufacturing practices within the industry.