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Professional Development for Jewelry Professionals

Since our inception in 1934, the American Gem Society (AGS) has been offering designations and credentials that support jewelry professionals in developing the knowledge and skills to perform their professional function in the best interest of their clients. When you work with a credentialed professional, you can rest assured that what you have purchased is represented fairly, your jewelry professional conducts business ethically, and that they are committed to their ongoing professional development.

Designations & Credentials Available

Certified Sales Associate (CSA)

Certified Sales Associate (CSA)

Jewelry Evaluation Advisor™ (JEA)

Becoming a registered jeweler of American Gem Society.

Registered Jeweler (RJ)

Registered Supplier of American Gem Society.

Registered Supplier (RS)

Certified Gemologist Logo - American Gem Society.

Certified Gemologist® (CG)

Certified Gemologist Appraiser Logo of American Gem Society.

Certified Gemologist® Appraiser (CGA)

Independent Certified Gemologist Appraiser Logo of American Gem Society.

Independent Certified Gemologist® Appraiser (ICGA)

AGS also awards the Accredited Gem Lab® (AGL) designation to retail and appraisal firms maintaining a professional gemological laboratory.

On-Campus Learning

We host a schedule of gemological classes taught by GIA instructors that support the fulfillment of prerequisites towards earning a credential from the American Gem Society.

Robert M. Shipley building

A Dynamic Education Portfolio

We also offer an educational portfolio that helps members stay on top of the latest developments in gemology as well as business, governmental regulations, human resources, legal, sales, and marketing.

Converge unites GIA’s (Gemological Institute of America) innovative gemological research and industry-leading education with American Gem Society’s (AGS) professional development and opportunities to connect, fostering community and collaboration, inspiring new ideas, and enhancing professional networks—all setting the stage for success.

You’ll learn about the latest cutting-edge research from industry experts, gain inspiration from world-class speakers, build relationships with like-minded professionals, and engage in conversations that spark new ideas.

Converge is more than an event; it’s a collective leap forward where every path leads to your success. Visit the event site to learn more.

Every year, Conclave creates buzz within the AGS community and the industry. Why? Because every Conclave offers a new and exciting event!

The American Gem Society’s International Conclave began in 1937 and has grown into the premier educational and networking event in the jewelry industry. The Society’s members convene annually to further their ongoing education and meet with their colleagues.

Considered one of the primary benefits of membership in the AGS, Conclave is held in a new location each year and is three days of jam-packed education and relationship building. During the event, you’ll have access to phenomenal keynote and featured speakers who are leading national speakers as well as breakout speakers who are industry experts, teaching a variety of need-to-know topics ranging from gemological training to sales, leadership, HR, legal, finance, and important government regulations.

What does that mean for you? It adds up to 15 hours of education over three days!  There is also over 20 hours’ worth of social activities, including networking breaks and events. It is more than that, though: it’s an investment in you and your career.

Future Conclaves

  • Conclave 2026 will take place September 14-17, 2026, in Orlando, FL at the Omni ChampionsGate.
  • Conclave 2027 will take place May 2-5, 2027, in Kansas City, MO at the Loews Kansas City Hotel.

Confluence

Unlock the potential of Confluence from the comfort of your home! Don’t miss this opportunity to learn from leading experts in the jewelry industry as they delve into the most critical topics. 

Confluence offers a unique virtual experience. The sessions are pre-recorded. However, the speakers will be in the live chat to answer your questions in real time! Plus, the live chat creates another opportunity to networking with the AGS Community.

Can’t join the live airing? No problem! All Confluence sessions, along with additional bonus content, will be on-demand following the event. Visit the event site to learn more.

Members have access to webinars on timely topics designed to help you learn best practices in all areas of your business. Each webinar is free and archived, which means you and your team can share in the knowledge at a time that is convenient.

AGS Pro Since 2017, AGS PRO has been the American Gem Society’s online learning portal. The site hosts the American Gem Society’s annual Recertification Exam. Additionally, you’ll find content filled with relevant, timely topics every jewelry professional needs. 

Subject matter includes educational pieces on gemology, whether its diamonds, synthetic treatments, gemstones, origin, and so much more.  A rich marketing and sales section covers the gamut from SEO to sales tips. There is an extensive business management section, plus HR, legal, and government regulations affecting the jewelry industry. AGS is where members go to learn with the Pros!

AGS’s courses and programs support you in earning professional credentials, and provide you with the knowledge and skills jewelry professionals need today.

Are you ready to take your career to the next level? Contact [email protected] today.