What does it mean to shop at a Jewelry Store with Credentials?
Jewelers, like many other professionals, have credentials that differentiate them from other jewelers and tradesman. Being informed of these credentials allows the consumer insight into the level of education the jeweler has obtained within their field of expertise, as well as the principals they have sworn to uphold in their business practices. G.G. means the person is a Graduate Gemologist and is trained in the field of gemology (a title issued by the Gemological Institute of America) Or membership in The American Gem Trade Association assures that the jewelry store complies with the standards of maintained by that organization. In short these are like the diplomas on the wall at a doctor’s office. It is one more way to assure yourself that your values are in line with the store’s values. Here is a brief list of some of the more common trade organizations that strive to regulate and uphold high ethical principals in the Jewelry industry. Membership in all of these is voluntary.
American Gem Trade Association (AGTA)
Mission Statement
The American Gem Trade Association (AGTA) is an association of United States and Canadian trade professionals dedicated to promoting the long term stability and integrity of the natural colored gemstone and Cultured Pearl industries. The Association pursues its goals through the combined use of educational programs, publicity, industry events, government and industry relations, and printed materials for both the trade and consumer. The AGTA is well-known in the gemstone and jewelry industries for maintaining the highest ethical standards.
The American Gem Society (AGS)
An association dedicated to setting and maintaining the highest possible standards of business ethics and professionalism in the jewelry industry. Today, American Gem Society members continue their dedication to ethics, knowledge and consumer protection.
Only a small percentage of those who apply for membership in the American Gem Society are awarded membership. In order for a firm to become a member of the American Gem Society they must meet the following criteria:
- The firm owners, principals, or employees must have a high level of gemological knowledge. This includes having studied and completed an Accredited or Graduate Program from the GIA or Gemological Association of Great Britain.
- 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 high business ethics and the firm exemplifies this belief.
- The firm must be a retail or supplier jewelry business that has been established for at least two years and has demonstrated financial stability.
Other affiliations to look for: The Jewelers Vigilance Committee and Jewelers of America. All of these organizations have websites which can help you locate local jewelers who adhere to their ethical principals.