AGS Adds New Program, Relaunches CSA
The American Gem Society now offers a Jewelry Evaluation Advisor designation as well as an updated Certified Sales Associate designation.

AGS recently launched the Jewelry Evaluation Advisor (JEA) designation, a new course designed to train retail sales professionals and supplier associates on how to handle jewelry intake and maintain quality control standards.
It focuses on jewelry intake, evaluation, and repair communication.
The program covers a variety of topics, including how to take in jewelry for repair and appraisal, evaluating and understanding jewelry repairs, effective communication about jewelry repairs, and information about quality control standards.
“The JEA began as a vision from the American Gem Society’s Education Committee just two years ago,” said Kevin Mays, CGA, chair of the AGS Education Committee.
“This course is a true collaboration between professional bench jewelers, jewelry experts, and the AGS team. It’s a testament to the strength of our community and our shared commitment to elevating the industry and empowering its members.”
Participants have to complete the program and the AGS 101 course to earn the JEA designation.
The AGS 101 course is a short online module that provides an overview of AGS’s mission, vision, and values to give participants a better understanding of how to uphold the organization’s standards.
To learn more and register for the JEA program, visit the AGS website.
AGS is also relaunching an updated version of its Certified Sales Associate (CSA) designation, which trains new sales associates joining the jewelry industry.
The course has a new, interactive format, with video components and knowledge checks throughout the program, and is meant to be more user-friendly.
Participants have to complete the Graduate Sales Associate course, alongside AGS 101, to earn the CSA designation.
The seven-chapter course introduces students to the jewelry profession, sharing information about diamonds, colored stones, pearls, metals, watches, and period jewelry.
It also highlights customer service, professionalism, and sales skills.
“By combining practical selling skills, foundational product knowledge, and an understanding of AGS standards, this program sets the stage for success, empowering participants to deliver exceptional customer experiences and contribute meaningfully to their teams,” said Mays.
To learn more and register for the CSA program, visit the AGS website.
The Latest

In a 6-3 ruling, the court said the president exceeded his authority when imposing sweeping tariffs under IEEPA.

Smith encourages salespeople to ask customers questions that elicit the release of oxytocin, the brain’s “feel-good” chemical.

The brooch, our Piece of the Week, shows the chromatic spectrum through a holographic coating on rock crystal.

Launched in 2023, the program will help the passing of knowledge between generations and alleviate the shortage of bench jewelers.

Raised in an orphanage, Bailey was 18 when she met her husband, Clyde. They opened their North Carolina jewelry store in 1948.


Material Good is celebrating its 10th anniversary as it opens its new store in the Back Bay neighborhood of Boston.

The show will be held March 26-30 at the Miami Beach Convention Center.

Criminals are using cell jammers to disable alarms, but new technology like JamAlert™ can stop them.

The estate of the model, philanthropist, and ex-wife of Johnny Carson has signed statement jewels up for sale at John Moran Auctioneers.

Are arm bands poised to make a comeback? Has red-carpet jewelry become boring? Find out on the second episode of the “My Next Question” podcast.

The organization is seeking a new executive director to lead it into its next phase of strategic growth and industry influence.

The nonprofit will present a live, two-hour introductory course on building confidence when selling colored gemstones.

Western wear continues to trend in the Year of the Fire Horse and along with it, horse and horseshoe motifs in jewelry.
![A peridot [left] and sapphires from Tanzania from Anza Gems, a wholesaler that partners with artisanal mining communities in East Africa Anza gems](https://uploads.nationaljeweler.com/uploads/cdd3962e9427ff45f69b31e06baf830d.jpg)
Although the market is robust, tariffs and precious metal prices are impacting the industry, Stuart Robertson and Brecken Branstrator said.

Rossman, who advised GIA for more than 50 years, is remembered for his passion and dedication to the field of gemology.

Guthrie, the mother of “Today” show host Savannah Guthrie, was abducted just as the Tucson gem shows were starting.

Butterfield Jewelers in Albuquerque, New Mexico, is preparing to close as members of the Butterfield family head into retirement.

Paul Morelli’s “Rosebud” necklace, our Piece of the Week, uses 18-karat rose, green, and white gold to turn the symbol of love into jewelry.

The nonprofit has welcomed four new grantees for 2026.

Parent company Saks Global is also closing nearly all Saks Off 5th locations, a Neiman Marcus store, and 14 personal styling suites.

It is believed the 24-karat heart-shaped enameled pendant was made for an event marking the betrothal of Princess Mary in 1518.

The AGTA Spectrum and Cutting Edge “Buyer’s Choice” award winners were announced at the Spectrum Awards Gala last week.

The “Kering Generation Award x Jewelry” returns for its second year with “Second Chance, First Choice” as its theme.

Sourced by For Future Reference Vintage, the yellow gold ring has a round center stone surrounded by step-cut sapphires.

The clothing and accessories chain announced last month it would be closing all of its stores.

The “Zales x Sweethearts” collection features three mystery heart charms engraved with classic sayings seen on the Valentine’s Day candies.

The event will include panel discussions, hands-on demonstrations of new digital manufacturing tools, and a jewelry design contest.






















