SourcingFeb 24, 2022
Natural Diamond Council Appoints Editor-in-ChiefMajorsMar 03, 2022
After 24 Years, Doug Hucker Is No Longer Head of AGTA
The CEO’s departure is effective immediately, the organization announced late Wednesday.
Dallas—Doug Hucker is out as CEO of the American Gem Trade Association, a position he held for more than two decades.
A statement from AGTA released Wednesday evening did not give a reason for the departure, noting only it was effective immediately.
The organization said the board of directors will start the process of selecting a new CEO soon.
Kimberly Collins, who was recently elected AGTA board president, will serve as interim CEO. The organization said all inquiries, questions, or pending business matters should be directed to her.
Hucker headed AGTA for the past 24 years.
Prior to that, he served as president and partner of The Registry Ltd., a company that specialized in antique and estate jewelry.
He grew AGTA into a leader in colored gemstone sales and education and developed GemFair Tucson into one of the most important annual gem trade shows in the world, the organization said in the release announcing the news.
Hucker was responsible for adding Las Vegas GemFair to the organization’s show lineup, and last year AGTA joined the inaugural HardRock Summit under his leadership.
He also made AGTA a part of important global education and business practice conversations, AGTA said, like gemstone treatment disclosure the importance of origin, and established affiliations with groups like CIBJO, the Women’s Jewelry Association, the Gemological Institute of America, and more.
“As more than two decades of service ends with Doug’s departure, we know there will be stories recollected for years to come of his involvement in the colored gemstone industry and all who have encountered him on personal and professional matters,” Collins said.
“He is a respected friend to many, and his leadership will be remembered as AGTA moves into the next phase of growth and development. The AGTA board of directors wishes Doug and his family good health, prosperity, and the best for their future endeavors.”
Related stories will be right here …
A statement from AGTA released Wednesday evening did not give a reason for the departure, noting only it was effective immediately.
The organization said the board of directors will start the process of selecting a new CEO soon.
Kimberly Collins, who was recently elected AGTA board president, will serve as interim CEO. The organization said all inquiries, questions, or pending business matters should be directed to her.
Hucker headed AGTA for the past 24 years.
Prior to that, he served as president and partner of The Registry Ltd., a company that specialized in antique and estate jewelry.
He grew AGTA into a leader in colored gemstone sales and education and developed GemFair Tucson into one of the most important annual gem trade shows in the world, the organization said in the release announcing the news.
Hucker was responsible for adding Las Vegas GemFair to the organization’s show lineup, and last year AGTA joined the inaugural HardRock Summit under his leadership.
He also made AGTA a part of important global education and business practice conversations, AGTA said, like gemstone treatment disclosure the importance of origin, and established affiliations with groups like CIBJO, the Women’s Jewelry Association, the Gemological Institute of America, and more.
“As more than two decades of service ends with Doug’s departure, we know there will be stories recollected for years to come of his involvement in the colored gemstone industry and all who have encountered him on personal and professional matters,” Collins said.
“He is a respected friend to many, and his leadership will be remembered as AGTA moves into the next phase of growth and development. The AGTA board of directors wishes Doug and his family good health, prosperity, and the best for their future endeavors.”
More on Majors
The Latest
IndependentsApr 16, 2026
Edge Retail Academy Updates Leadership TeamAs demand for jewelry retail coaching grows, the company has established a dedicated business coaching leadership team.
CrimeApr 16, 2026
FBI Issues Warning to Refineries, Retailers Due to High Price of GoldThe alert states that burglary crews are targeting jewelry businesses and details how jewelers and refineries can protect themselves.
PodcastsApr 15, 2026
Episode 4: The Natural Diamond DilemmaSally Morrison and Mark Klein discuss De Beers’ first beacon in 16 years and the mistake the industry made with lab-grown diamonds.
Brought to you by
Discover Timeless Treasures: A Showcase of Antique Jewelry & Timepieces in Las VegasGain access to the most exclusive and coveted antique pieces from trusted dealers during Las Vegas Jewelry Week.
WatchesApr 15, 2026
These Are the New Rolex Watches for 2026Rolex focused exclusively on the Oyster Perpetual this year, as the model is celebrating its 100th anniversary.
Weekly QuizApr 09, 2026
This Week’s QuizTest your jewelry news knowledge by answering these questions.
FinancialsApr 15, 2026
Kering’s Jewelry Shines in Q1, Gucci’s Struggle ContinuesThe luxury giant discussed the Middle East conflict and its transformation plans, hinting at a stronger jewelry presence in North America.
SourcingApr 15, 2026
Diamond Club West Coast Names 2026 BoardKalpesh Jhaveri was re-elected as president for a third year.
Brought to you by
Las Vegas Antique Jewelry & Watch Show: Showcasing the Most Collectible Merchandise from Across the GlobeGain access to the most exclusive and coveted antique pieces from trusted dealers during Las Vegas Jewelry Week.
TechnologyApr 15, 2026
This Jewelry Brand’s Video Series Is Up for a Webby Award“Diamond Divas,” a social media reality series by Shahla Karimi Jewelry, is nominated in the “Best Social: Fashion & Beauty” category.
SourcingApr 14, 2026
De Beers Expands ‘Desert Diamonds’ Beacon Into BridalThe campaign seeks to reignite desire for natural diamond engagement rings by highlighting the “distinct character” of warm-toned diamonds.
FinancialsApr 14, 2026
LVMH’s Q1 Sales Sink 6% Amid Middle East ConflictPlus, how Saks Global’s bankruptcy affected the luxury giant’s first quarter.
SourcingApr 14, 2026
International Jade Summit to Return to MontereyPresented by Mason-Kay Jade, the summit, in its second year, will again be held during the Monterey Bay Jade Festival.
Events & AwardsApr 14, 2026
CBG Releases Details for Las Vegas ShowThe group has announced its lineup of speakers and a new “Rising Stars” pavilion.
CollectionsApr 13, 2026
Uniform Object’s New Jewelry Collection Centers on the ‘Carbon Form’The “Carbon Form” collection explores the contrast between high and low materials, using rubber cord alongside 18-karat gold and gemstones.
Events & AwardsApr 13, 2026
JA Accepting 2026 Impact Initiative ApplicationsThe program provides essential funding to organizations for projects that enhance the jewelry industry.
Events & AwardsApr 13, 2026
Couture Announces New Show in MiamiThe jewelry trade show is launching its first open-to-the-public event in Coconut Grove this November.
CrimeApr 13, 2026
JSA Offers Reward in Oregon Jewelry Store Armed RobberyJSA is seeking information about the gunpoint robbery of a Kay Jewelers location in Oregon’s Washington Square Mall.
WatchesApr 10, 2026
These Watches Have Increased in Value the Most Since 2018, Says Chrono24The top-performing watch models may be surprising, with Rolex and several popular pandemic-era picks notably absent from the top 20.
CollectionsApr 10, 2026
Ophelia Eve’s Toggle Pendant Holds Your SecretsThe “Scroll” toggle pendant, our Piece of the Week, opens to reveal a hidden message, mantra, or love letter written on washi paper.
ColumnistsApr 09, 2026
Jewelry Demand Isn’t Stronger, Prices Are Just Higher Jewelers who misinterpret the state of the jewelry market risk employing the wrong retail strategy, cautions columnist Sherry Smith.
MajorsApr 09, 2026
Tiffany & Co. Promotes Nathalie Verdeille to SVP, Chief Artistic OfficerIn her newly expanded role, she will continue to oversee the jewelry category, as well as watches, home, and accessories.
WatchesApr 09, 2026
Jacob & Co. Rolls Out Its Sequel to ‘The Godfather’ Musical Watch“The Godfather II” watch plays two melodies from the mob film’s score, “The Godfather’s Waltz” and “The Godfather Love Theme.”
Events & AwardsApr 09, 2026
JCK Announces Jesse Itzler as 2026 Keynote SpeakerOrganizers have also introduced the new JCK Talks Signature Series, as well as an offering of watch-focused workshops and lectures.
SourcingApr 09, 2026
AGA To Honor ‘Quiet Leadership’ With New AwardThe Alan Hodgkinson Medal recognizes gemologists who are consistently generous with their time and expertise.
WatchesApr 09, 2026
Oris Names New CEO, CFOThe Swiss watchmaker is changing up its executive leadership team as part of a restructuring.
CollectionsApr 08, 2026
Hearts On Fire Celebrates 30 Years By Asking a QuestionThe “What’s Your Signature?” campaign invites women to think about how they see themselves.
SourcingApr 08, 2026
Sale of 42-Carat Blue Diamond Gives Petra a Boost in Q3The big diamond’s sale added to the company’s revenue though the market remains “challenging” overall, particularly for smaller goods.
