Membership:
What makes membership in the American Gem Society so special? To begin with, its one of the oldest and most respected jewelry associations in the world. Founded in 1934 by Robert M. Shipley and several other well-established independent jewelers, the Society membership has included many of the leading jewelry firms and renowned gem experts in the industry.
The Society is particularly exclusive. Only a small percentage about 5% of all jewelers, designers, appraisers, and suppliers nationwide have met the standards for membership in the American Gem Society. For a firm to become a member of the American Gem Society, it must meet a list of rigid requirements.
The firm owners, principals, or employees must have completed an accredited or graduate program from the Gemological Institute of America (GIA) or Gem-A (the Gemmological Association of Great Britain). In addition, they must have completed further studies with the American Gem Society.
The firm must hold a reputation for unquestioned integrity in the business community and must be operated in a way that will enhance the confidence of the public in the jewelry industry.
The owners and principals must demonstrate that they are genuinely interested in operating their business in accordance with the highest ethical standards and that the firm exemplifies this belief.
The firm must have been in the retail, supplier, or independent appraisal business for at least two years and must demonstrate financial stability.
If you have this level of commitment, knowledge, and ethical standards in your business dealings, explore this site for additional information on the requirements and benefits of membership in the American Gem Society, an organization dedicated to "Consumer Protection Since 1934".
