The American Gem Society (AGS) and the Gemological Institute of America (GIA) announce the recipient of the 2026 Beatrice Shipley Scholarship. Additionally, AGS has awarded a recipient for the Women in Leadership Scholarship.
Beatrice Shipley Scholarship: Karen Fox
The 2026 Beatrice Shipley Scholarship, presented in collaboration with GIA (Gemological Institute of America), has been awarded to Karen Fox of Fox Fine Jewelry in Ventura, CA. The scholarship covers tuition for the GIA Graduate Gemologist® program—either online or at the Carlsbad, CA campus—as well as the AGS Way Course and registration for the 2026 AGS Conclave.
“I am thrilled to receive the Beatrice Shipley Scholarship, an incredible honor and a meaningful milestone in my gemological journey as I work toward earning my Graduate Gemologist® and Certified Gemologist® credentials. Continued education is essential to providing clients with the highest level of expertise, confidence, and service. I am deeply grateful for the opportunity to further my education and career with the support of AGS and GIA,” said Karen.
A second-generation jeweler, Karen works alongside her father, George Fox, GG, CGA, CMBJ, at the family’s Ventura, CA store. As Fox Fine Jewelry’s shop manager, she oversees the creative lifecycle of custom jewelry entirely in-house—from initial design through CAD and casting to the final polish. With more than a decade of experience in CAD/CAM, Karen specializes in custom engagement rings and antique replica pieces, recreating heirlooms that have become too worn to wear. She is a graduate of the New Approach School for Jewelers and GIA’s Graduate Diamonds program, holds a Design BA, and is a member of the Jewelers of America 20 Under 40 Retailers class of 2026.
Women In Leadership Scholarship: Jenna Siegel
The American Gem Society created the AGS Women in Leadership Scholarship to support emerging women leaders in the jewelry industry. The 2026 recipient is Jenna Siegel of Argo & Lehne Jewelers in Columbus, OH. Jenna will receive complimentary registration to Conclave 2026, a $500 gift card, and a personalized mentorship experience coordinated by AGS.
“I am honored to have been awarded the 2026 Women in Leadership Scholarship,” said Jenna. “This investment in my future will provide valuable learning and growth opportunities. Thank you for supporting the development of my skills and knowledge, which I need to make a greater impact in this field”
Jenna Siegel is a newcomer to the jewelry industry. Following a lifelong interest in jewelry, she pursued her passion, which led her to Argo & Lehne. Jenna is pursuing further education to become a Graduate Gemologist®.
Both Ms. Fox and Ms. Siegel will be recognized at the American Gem Society’s annual Conclave in Orlando, FL, September 14-17. To learn more about Conclave, visit ags.org/Conclave.
For more information about the American Gem Society and its scholarship programs, visit ags.org.
