What is AGS?

Created in 1934, the American Gem Society (AGS) is dedicated to broadening the consumer's understanding of a gemologist's specialized skill and knowledge.

The American Gem Society's emphasis on the study and profitable merchandising of gemstones has resulted in widespread acceptance of the value of gemological knowledge. Through these efforts, AGS is able to provide jewelers with training and accreditation that sets them apart from their competition.

In 1996, AGS opened its own diamond-grading laboratory. Advances in technology made it possible to cost-effectively grade the most import of the four C's—the cut. The American Gem Society's Diamond Quality Document (DQD) is the premiere diamond report in the industry today.

The primary purpose of AGS Labs is two-fold: 1) To protect the consumer by providing a report that gives all the information about a diamond, and 2) to raise the level of cutting quality by consulting with the diamond manufacturing trade.