5 Steps to Take When Buying a Diamond

Buying a diamond shouldn’t be stressful. If you’re buying diamond jewelry, it should be a celebratory occasion that begins the moment you start shopping. Get ready to enjoy the experience! Guidelines for buying a diamond Buying a diamond is easier when you have some guidelines to follow. We’ve compiled five steps to take when buying […]
How to Buy and Where to Find High-Quality Gemstones: Buying Gemstones is Easier With Our Gem Guide

Whether you’re buying gemstone jewelry for yourself or a loved one, there are a few things you should keep in mind while shopping. The 4Cs of diamond buying—carat, color, clarity, and cut—can be used for many gemstones as well. However, the specifics will differ. You will also want to keep in mind the differences between […]
Tips from Jewelers Mutual: Popular Engagement Rings to Make Your Holiday Proposal Perfect
Are you planning to make one of your holiday gifts an engagement ring? With all the excitement and holiday hubbub, where do you begin? Jewelers Mutual Insurance Company has compiled a wonderful list of what to look for, based on latest trends, hottest colors and alternative alloys. But keep in mind, it’s most important to […]
August is Romance Awareness Month!
By Amanda L. Colborn Even though the American Gem Society is a professional organization dedicated to credentialing jewelers and consumer protection, we understand that one of the biggest reasons people give jewelry is to show their love. And we love…..well, love! So this blog is a celebration of romance, and lucky for us, August is […]
The Benefits of Jewelry Appraisals
By Phillip Bosen, CGA and Director of Business Development at Von Bargen’s JewelryA critical step in protecting and preserving the value of your jewelry is getting an updated appraisal on a regular basis. In fact, if the most recent appraisal of your jewelry took place five or more years ago, it’s time to get a new […]
It’s Okay to Get an "F" in Diamond Color
By John Carter, CGA, CEO & President of Jack Lewis Jewelers Choosing the diamond that is right for you means that you need to become a Jedi Master with the answers to these two questions: What area(s) should I spend money on? And more importantly: In what area(s) should I save money without it being obvious […]
Your sneak peek into Jewelry Week!
By Amanda L Colborn May 26 – June 1 is known as “Jewelry Week” this year in Las Vegas, NV. With major trade show events hosted at both Mandalay Bay and the Wynn, you could say that the jewelry industry has taken over the Las Vegas strip. Many of the exhibitors that have flown to Vegas to […]
Graduation Gifts!
By Amanda L Colborn Time sure does fly, right? Perhaps you’ve been dreading it…or maybe you’re looking forward to this new chapter of your loved ones’ life. Whether you’re ready for it or not, your favorite graduate is going to be walking down that aisle and accepting that diploma or degree that they’ve worked so hard for. Witnessing this […]
Go Retro: The Beauty & Benefits of Estate Jewelry
By Amanda L. Colborn When it comes to jewelry, more and more people are looking to the past for their present jewelry inspiration. It’s not just about style and fashion, estate jewelry has benefits to both your wallet AND the environment! But first, what is “estate” jewelry? Estate jewelry is, in the simplest of terms, […]
Happy Birthday April! It's your time to shine!
By Amanda L Colborn At the American Gem Society and especially in AGS Laboratories, we look forward to April all year long! With the diamond being April’s birthstone, it’s yet another opportunity to celebrate our favorite things: bright, shiny diamonds! Don’t get us wrong, all other months and their birthstones are just as special! However, being […]