Where Education Meets Opportunity: Conclave 2026 and AGS Scholarships
Conclave 2026 is heading to Orlando, FL, September 14–17, and we can’t wait to see everyone there. This year’s schedule looks a little different. Pre-events kick off on Monday, September 14, with the Conclave officially opening on Tuesday, September 15. Arriving early means more time to connect—the Mentor Mixer and Guilds Party on Monday evening […]
Two Dates to Remember: The AGS Membership Meeting and 2001 Time Capsule Reveal
From key Society updates to a celebration decades in the making, AGS members are invited to gather—virtually and in person—for moments that reflect the heart of the organization. This year’s Virtual Annual Membership Meeting and the 2001 Time Capsule reveal bring together reflection, celebration, and community. The Annual Meeting of the AGS Membership: A Virtual […]
Member Spotlight: Amipi Inc.
As Amipi Inc. celebrates its 50th anniversary, the company reflects on a legacy defined by craftsmanship, evolution, and family leadership; now carried forward by its third generation. Founded by Dr. Mahendra Mehta, Amipi began with a specialized focus on perfectly cut marquise diamonds. His dedication to precision and quality established a strong foundation rooted in […]
The Finer Points: Understanding Your AGS Membership
The American Gem Society (AGS) has always stood for something more than a name. It represents a commitment to protecting consumers through the highest standards of ethics and ongoing education—values embodied in every AGS credential. As our organization continues to evolve, we’ve worked hard to ensure that the structure supporting that mission is modern, streamlined, […]
Does It Make Sense to Convert Your Home to a Rental Property?
By Todd Feldman, CFP®, CExP™ and Patrick Carroll, CFP®, CExP™ of Merit Financial Advisors In our work with individuals, families, and business owners, questions about real estate come up frequently: Is it better to pay cash for a home or secure a mortgage? Should I add my child to the deed on my home since […]
Certified Sales Associate | March 2026
The following professionals have recently earned the prestigious designation of Certified Sales Associate (CSA) by the American Gem Society: Jessica Alfrey, CSA Wesche Jewelers(Gold Level Member) Melbourne, FL Michah J. Baumgart, CSA Krail Jewelry, Inc. Fond Du Lac, WI Heather Black, CSA Naifeh Fine Jewelry Nichols Hills, OK Bradley Caldarona, CSA Thomas A. Davis Jeweler […]
Jewelry Evaluation Advisor | March 2026
The following professionals have recently earned the prestigious designation of Jewelry Evaluation Advisor® (JEA) by the American Gem Society: Andrew B. Abernethy, JEA Jewelry By Designs of Woodbridge, LLC Woodbridge, VA Megan Beck, JEA Bailey’s Fine jewelry (Diamond Level Member) Rocky Mount, VA Shiva Beebakhee, JEA Lux Bond & Green (Diamond Level Member) West Hartford, […]
Registered Jeweler | March 2026
The following professionals have earned the prestigious Registered Jeweler (RJ) creential from the American Gem Society: Stephen Coe, RJ Underwood Jewelers(Diamond Level Member) Ponte Vedra Beach, FL Jason R. Stavrianidis, RJ Venus Jewelers Somerset, NJ Johnny Triantafyllou, RJ Braunschweiger Jewelers Morristown, NJ
Advancing Appraisal Standards with the New ACGA Credential
The American Gem Society (AGS) has taken an important step forward in its advanced appraisal credentialing—one that reflects the growing sophistication of gemological expertise, appraisal procedures, valuation, and professional practice. The Independent Certified Gemologist® Appraiser (ICGA) title has recently transitioned to the Advanced Certified Gemologist® Appraiser (ACGA) credential. All current ICGA titleholders have transitioned to […]
Nominations Open for the Shipley Award—Plus Scholarships to Advance Your Career
From honoring an industry leader to taking your career to the next level, the American Gem Society (AGS) presents three opportunties you won’t want to miss! Make Your Nomination: 2026 Robert M. Shipley Award® The Robert M. Shipley Award® is the most distinguished honor the American Gem Society presents—a meaningful recognition of a member whose […]