American Gem Society Code of Ethics

Mission Statement

The American Gem Society (AGS) is a nonprofit trade association of fine jewelry professionals dedicated to setting, maintaining, and promoting the highest standards of ethical conduct and professional behavior through education, accreditation, recertification of its membership, gemological standards, and gemological research.

AGS is committed to providing educational products to inform and protect the consumer and to contributing to the betterment of the trade by creating industry standards to protect the jewelry-buying public and the fine jewelry industry as a whole.

The American Gem Society’s Pledge to the Consumer

AGS was created with one mission in mind: to protect you, the consumer.

Our members adhere to the highest standards of business practices and ethics so that you can buy with confidence from jewelers you can trust. AGS Standards not only comply with governing laws but also go beyond that to ensure that you are buying from jewelers who have the knowledge and skill to help you make the most informed buying decisions.

Who Is Bound by the Code of Ethics

The Code applies to AGS members who interact with members of the public. As members of AGS, such members agree to adhere to and be bound by this Code.

AGS Ethical Practices

In order to maintain membership, jewelers in the American Gem Society agree to:

Clearly and accurately disclose all information essential to a consumer’s ability to make a well-informed purchasing decision. Proper disclosure includes requirements by local, state, national, and international regulatory agencies or bodies.
Never intentionally deceive their employees, consumers, vendors, or business associates.
Compete fairly and never speak unprofessionally about their competitors. Likewise, encourage their colleagues in the jewelry industry to embrace these principles of integrity and honesty.
Make their best effort to resolve any consumer complaints relating to the sale of a product in a timely manner and with professionalism and care.
Make every effort to fully comply with the Kimberley Process Certification Scheme and the World Diamond Council System of Warranties. In addition, not sell conflict diamonds, and to adhere to all applicable trade sanctions and restrictions related to the gem and jewelry industry.
Commit to ongoing learning in gemology and jewelry—whether initiating or continuing their education—with the goal of enhancing their knowledge and remaining informed on evolving trends and ethical business standards.
Adhere to the Anti-Money Laundering (AML) program, which is designed to comply with the USA PATRIOT Act. In addition, comply with all applicable local, state, national, and international laws and regulations, including but not limited to business licensing, tax obligations, zoning and safety requirements, labor, environmental, and industry-specific standards governing its operations.

Conduct themselves with integrity, professionalism, and respect for others. Uphold high standards of behavior and engage in respectful, constructive interactions. Adhere to the AGS Event Code of Conduct. Under the guidelines for “Social and Human Rights Practices,” AGS jewelers are required to respect the fundamental human rights of all their employees, business associates, and, of course, the consumer. They must adhere to all applicable laws related to work hours and compensation, and they must conduct business in an environmentally responsible manner.

Code of Ethics Complaints

Any Code of Ethics complaints received by AGS will be processed in accordance with the AGS Grievance & Review Subcommittee Standards and Procedures.

Find one of these reputable and knowledgeable jewelers near you!