Industry Organizations & Resources

Accredited Gemologists Association

As a professional peer society, we believe in excellence and are dedicated to establishing the highest ethical and professional standards of practice. As a member, you gain peer recognition for active participation in educational programs and industry forums gaining the personal satisfaction of improving your skills while contributing to your profession.

AGTA - www.agta.org

The American Gem Trade Association (AGTA) is an association of United States and Canadian trade professionals dedicated to promoting the long term stability and integrity of the natural colored gemstone and Cultured Pearl industries. The Association pursues its goals through the combined use of educational programs, publicity, industry events, government and industry relations, and printed materials for both the trade and consumer. The AGTA is well-known in the gemstone and jewelry industries for maintaining the highest ethical standards.

Gem and Mineral Council of Los Angeles - www.nhm.org

The Gem & Mineral Council offers its members opportunities to advance their knowledge and enjoyment of gems and minerals within the unique context of the Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County. The Council provides a varied schedule of activities including exciting field trips, educational lectures, and exclusive social events. Since its inception in the spring of 1985, the Council has continued to grow and increase in vitality, and it remains the foremost museum gem and mineral support and public programming organization in the world.

Gemological Institute of America (GIA) - www.gia.edu

Established in 1931, the Gemological Institute of America is the world’s foremost authority on diamonds, colored stones, and pearls.

Jeweler's Board of Trade - www.jewelersboard.com

The Jewelers Board of Trade (JBT) is the only organization dedicated solely to providing credit reporting, collections and marketing services to the jewelry industry. Our database of over 70,000 jewelry industry-related businesses provides JBT members with the latest information to support their credit decision processes.

Jeweler's Vigilance Committee - www.jvclegal.org

The Jewelers Vigilance Committee was formed in 1912 to provide education and self-regulation to the jewelry industry. Members operate under the highest standards of business practice after pledging to comply with all laws applicable to the jewelry industry and make accurate representations about the products they sell.

Santiago Canyon College (SCC) Gemology Program - www.sccollege.edu

The program offers expert instruction by jewelery professionals, culminating in either a Certificate or an Associate of Arts degree, providing a solid base of knowledge to launch a new career or advance an existing one.

Searchers Gem & Mineral Society - www.searchersrocks.org

Membership benefits include access to lapidary equipment!

Tucson Gem Show - www.jewelryshowguide.com

THE gem show.

West Coast Gem & Mineral Show - www.mzexpos.com

Hosts spring and fall shows, where our Alumni Association has a booth to promote the Gemology program.

Other Places of Interest

Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County - www.nhm.org

Of particular interest to those interested in gemology is their gem and mineral exhibit.