The American Gem Society: Does AGS Still Offer Certification?

The history of the American Gem Society can be traced back to the 1920s, at which time Robert M. Shipley was an influential jewelry merchant. He experienced a very humbling but awakening experience one day. During his heydays as a jewelry seller, Shipley believed he was the best merchant around and thought that he knew everything there was to know about jewelry in general. But that was before a pair of his repeat customers proved to him otherwise.

Shipley took the challenge positively. He reckoned that the apparent lack of expertise among many jewelry merchants accounted for the growing distrust between traders and their customers. When he later divorced, he ended up losing his jewelry store. Shipley then moved to Europe with one sole motive—to learn more about jewelry. As soon as he got there, he enrolled in a correspondence course with the Great Britain National Association of Goldsmiths. Upon completing the course, he traveled back to LA with a wealth of gemological knowledge and experience.

On 16 September 1930, Shipley founded a preliminary course in gemology. He focused all his time and energy on training local gemologists. During his training programs, Shipley introduced and fostered a somewhat new concept in the jewelry industry. The focus would not be profit generation but exceptional customer service. It is from his efforts that the phrase “certified gemologist” came into existence.

Shoppers were now keen on dealing only with certified gemologists, creating a ripple effect that forced more traders to enlist for Shipley’s training programs.

Since the 1930s, the AGS has been on a consistent growth trajectory. The organization has introduced some globally accepted concepts and practices in the jewelry trade. Some of these achievements include:

1. The invention of the first scientifically reviewed Cut Grade method.
2. The creation of the Ideal Cut Grade for use on Round Brilliant diamonds, commonly referred to as the Triple Zero Cut or the AGS Ideal.
3. Offering the first diamond grading reports with Oval and Emerald cuts, including a Cut Grade for Princess.

It is almost impossible to discuss the company without mentioning AGS Laboratories. This is so because most of the operations of this organization are centered around its laboratory. AGS Laboratories was established in 1996 and, similar to the association, is a non-profit entity. It was founded mainly to enhance consumer protection.

The main service that AGS Laboratories offers is diamond grading. Being a third-party association, the lab’s grading reports can be trusted to be unbiased. Also, the reports are consistent because they are prepared by some of the industry’s most professionally trained gemologists. All the grading processes in the lab are scientifically conducted.

It does not matter whether one is a diamond dealer or buyer, given that AGS Laboratories can be tasked with any diamond grading need. The laboratory’s grading certifications usually indicate the specific elements in a diamond, allowing for its weight and cut to be easily known. Moreover, the diamond’s color and clarity score can also be established. A dealer can easily price his merchandise based on the report. On the other hand, the report will give an accurate appraisal of a diamond to its potential buyers before they purchase it.

The AGS ensures that its grading reports meet the minimum threshold for acceptability. These reports often feature the following elements:

1. Accuracy and precision in grading.
2. Clarity in preparation. Graders use such language as it is easy for the report-holder to read and interpret.
3. The use of cutting-edge patented grading technology. The technology is scientifically driven, thereby ensuring accuracy and consistency each time.
4. Up to six security measures that guarantee their authenticity.

Besides their diamond grading services, AGS Laboratories also offer laser inscription using a micro laser beam. The inscription could be of anything, from a company logo, a unique text, or an image to a serial number. In most cases, the inscriptions are made on the girdle only to be viewed via a magnification device. These inscriptions can be vital because they give diamonds their unique identity, adding to their overall value. Also, they can help owners track and identify them when lost. The best part is that the service does not interfere with the quality of diamonds.

Information Resource Center

Besides laboratory services, the AGS website is a goldmine of information where visitors can learn about anything concerning diamonds and jewelry.

The site has a page dedicated particularly to diamonds. This page provides information about the history of diamonds and how the AGS diamond grading system works. Visitors will also discover how diamond engagement rings became fashionable. If they are thinking of buying but are unsure where to start, a comprehensive buying guide focuses mainly on the 4Cs and other details. Lastly, there are tips on how to verify that a diamond report is from the AGS.

Another section of the website is dedicated to jewelry in general. Information about identifying and shopping for these gems can be read, from birthstones to pearls and gemstones.

Next, a section discusses the jewelry industry, letting visitors uncover emerging trends in this lucrative sector. They can find out more about how to become an accredited AGS member. It is a rigorous procedure, and only the best in the industry get accepted. Needless to say, the AGS website can be used to locate a licensed AGS supplier.