1. LinkedIn Profile
LinkedIn is a valuable platform for professional networking. Include your highest AGS title after your name in the profile headline to immediately convey your expertise—for example, “Jane Doe, CGA.” To comply with AGS Brand Standards, please write your titles without periods (e.g., “CGA,” not “C.G.A.”). Also, add your AGS credential under the “Licenses & Certifications” section, with a brief description of its significance (see below for suggestions). This not only highlights your qualifications but also strengthens your credibility on the platform.
2. Email Signature
Your email signature is another key place to display your AGS credential. Include only your highest designation right after your name, such as: Jane Doe, CGA.
3. Business Cards and Promotional Materials
Your business cards, brochures, and other promotional materials should also include your highest AGS credential. This practice ensures that clients and colleagues recognize your professional achievements at a glance. For example, “John Smith, CGA” communicates your status as a top expert in the field.
4. General Use
Consistently use your highest AGS credential in all professional settings, including on your website, social media bios, and when speaking at events or writing articles. This uniformity reinforces your professional image and authority in the industry.
By strategically and consistently displaying your AGS credentials, you emphasize your commitment to excellence and solidify your reputation as a knowledgeable and respected professional in the jewelry community.
5. Sample Language
Feel free to copy/paste the following into your social or adapt it for your sales presentation.
Certified Sales Associate (CSA): I’m an American Gem Society (AGS) Certified Sales Associate (CSA). To achieve this designation, I have completed specialized training designed to equip me with the tools and techniques essential for effectively selling jewelry, and providing accurate, professional information to clients. This certification demonstrates my commitment to delivering a high standard of service and ethical practice in every interaction, ensuring you receive knowledgeable guidance and trustworthy expertise when making your jewelry purchases. In order to maintain this designation, I must recertify annually by taking a thorough exam.
Registered Jeweler (RJ): I’m an American Gem Society (AGS) Registered Jeweler (RJ). In order to earn this title, I completed all the required coursework and classroom study by the AGS, along with written and practical exams in diamond grading. I must also pass a Recertification exam each year in order to keep my title, ensuring that I’m staying up-to-date on the latest skills and knowledge in jewelry. An RJ title lets you know that the jeweler you are working with truly understands jewelry, diamonds and gemstones, and have proven their commitment to their community and the highest standards of ethical practice.
Certified Gemologist® (CG): I’m an American Gem Society (AGS) Certified Gemologist (CG). A CG has taken advanced studies in diamonds and colored gemstones. Every year, I must pass an annual Recertification exam, ensuring I am staying on top of my game with the necessary skills and knowledge of our industry. If you are shopping with an American Gem Society CG, you are working with a master of diamond, gemstone, and precious metal testing procedures.
Certified Gemologist® Appraiser (CGA): When you see a “CGA” title after a jeweler’s name, it means they are an American Gem Society Certified Gemologist Appraiser. I’m proud to be one! This title is the most highly regarded among peers in the jewelry industry. It certifies that I can identify diamonds, gemstones and jewelry, and determine their value. In order to earn this title, I must have advanced training and experience in determining the value of diamonds and gemstones. To maintain my title, I must pass an annual recertification exam, verifying I have the necessary skills and knowledge of our industry.
Independent Certified Gemologist® Appraiser (ICGA): I’m proud to be an ICGA! What does that mean? When you see an “ICGA” title after a jeweler’s name, it means they are an American Gem Society Independent Certified Gemologist Appraiser. This title represents those whose sole business is appraising. ICGAs do not purchase or sell diamonds, gemstones, or jewelry. To receive this certification, the ICGA has completed all the requirements for RJ, CG and CGA. Plus, we have completed an extensive course in personal property appraising. To maintain my title, I must pass an annual recertification exam, verifying I have the necessary skills and knowledge of our industry.
To learn more about AGS professional credentials and how to earn one, visit the Credentials page on our website.
