The American
Gem Society was established in 1934 by a select group of independent
jewelers and Robert M. Shipley, founder of the prestigious school
of gemology, the Gemological Institute of America (GIA).
It was their vision to create 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.
The Highest Code of Ethics:
To ensure our members practice the highest standard of business
ethics, the Society prohibits certain business practices,
including:
Advertising which in any way is not the truth or has the
intent to be misleading.
Advertising or setting artificially high prices as the regular
price to allow a fictitious sale price or supposed discount.
Representing itself as a wholesaler and selling to the consumer.
Employing the technique of bait and switch, which is attempting
to influence customers to buy an article carrying a high mark-up
in place of an article requested.
Failing to advertise in accordance with recommendations set
forth by the Council of Better Business Bureaus, Inc.
Any member found in violation of the Society’s code
of ethics is subject to investigation and possible expulsion.
The Most Knowledgeable Professionals, AGS Members:
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 Gemmological 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.
© Copyright 2003-2005 American Gem Society.
