Becoming A Certified Jeweler

The American Gem Society is a not-for-profit trade association of fine jewelers, jewelry manufacturers and suppliers in the United States, Canada, and Europe who are dedicated to consumer protection, ethical business standards, and development of the highest gemological skills and knowledge. Founded in 1934 by Robert M. Shipley and several other well-established independent jewelers, the Society membership has included many of the leading jewelry firms and renowned gem experts in the industry.

To qualify for membership and ensure excellence, individual American Gem Society titleholders and designees must pass stringent examinations on diamonds and colored gemstones. All Certified Jewelers, Certified Gemologists, Certified Gemologist Appraisers, and Certified Sales Associates are required to be re-certified annually.

Other things a firm must do in order for a firm to become a certified jeweler of the American Gem Society are:

* The firm owners, principals, or employees must have completed an accredited or graduate program from the Gemological Institute of America (GIA) or Gem-A (the Gemological Association of Great Britain). In addition, they must have completed further studies with the American Gem Society.

* The firm must hold a reputation for unquestioned integrity in the business community and must be operated in a way that will enhance the confidence of the public in the jewelry industry.

* The owners and principals must demonstrate that they are genuinely interested in operating their business in accordance with the highest ethical standards and that the firm exemplifies this belief.

* The firm must have been in the retail, supplier, or independent appraisal business for at least two years and must demonstrate financial stability.

The American Gem Society provides the following titles and certifications:

--Registered Jeweler (RJ). Earned by individuals who have successfully completed the required course work and classroom study of diamonds and colored stones and who adhere to the American Gem Society's code of ethics.This title must be renewed annually based on continuing education and on sustained ethical business practices.

--Certified Gemologist (CG). A more advanced title offered by the American Gem Society requires additional study in diamonds and colored gemstones as well as the mastery of sophisticated testing procedures.This title must be renewed annually based on continuing education and on sustained ethical business practices.

--Certified Gemologist Appraiser (CGA). This title is the most highly regarded in the industry.Earning the CGA title requires more advanced training and experience in determining the value of gemstones and jewelry. CGA titleholders must also pass annual re-certification exams to maintain this prestigious title.

--Independent Certified Gemologist Appraiser (ICGA). This title is awarded to the individual member whose sole business is appraising. The ICGA does not engage in purchasing or selling gems or jewelry. In addition to the requirements for the CGA, the independent appraiser has completed an extensive course in personal property appraising and is responsible for submitting proof of continuing education every five years.

Being part of a an organization that has been dedicated to consumer protection for more than 70 years has many benefits. As a a certified jeweler by the American Gem Society, your firm will belong to an exclusive society in which only 5% of all jewelers, designers, appraisers, and suppliers nationwide have met the standards for membership.

Being a certified jeweler by the American Gem Society will allow you to take advantage of their Grassroots Co-operative Advertising. This is a program that provides advertisements, radio scripts, and television to promote the benefits of shopping with an American Gem Society member. In addition, the program reimburses retailers a prearranged dollar amount for advertising in their community.

Also as a member of the American Gem Society you can take advantage of their print and broadcast advertisements, usually geared for key buying periods such as Valentine's Day, Christmas, graduations Mother's Day, bridal and holidays.

Not only you will get access to their quarterly membership magazine Spectra but you will also have access to the American Gem Society International Conclave. The American Gem Society Conclave provides a networking forum for all certified jewelers and members to discuss and educate each other on the latest events, breakthroughs, trends, business strategies and attend comprehensive education programs.

One of the most important privileges for being certified by the American Gem Society is the professional marketing support that they will provide you. The American Gem Society has developed the most "go-to" website in the jewelry industry with the idea in mind of creating attention-getting, lead-driving and targeted advertising programs. The American Gem Society also provides print advertising materials designed to stand out in the crowds as well as customized brochures and television ads.