Established in 1981, the American Gem Trade Association (AGTA) remains an unwavering symbol of ethical conduct and transformative influence in the colored gemstone sector. With a steadfast commitment to uncompromising standards, AGTA has embedded ethics into its core, shaping the gemstone industry for more than forty years and safeguarding consumer interests.
A cornerstone of AGTA’s commitment is the renowned gem show held in Tucson since its inception in 1982. This event has not only refreshed the perspectives of jewelers and traders but also disseminated vital information on gemstone treatments, polishing techniques, inherent issues, and import/export regulations. AGTA’s dedication to enlightenment has earned it the endorsement of the esteemed Arizona Jewelers Association.
Functioning as gatekeepers of the gemstone industry, AGTA dealers play a crucial role in filtering gemstone treatments before they reach the broader market. They act as vanguards, introducing novel products to gem laboratories for analysis and often being the first to explore groundbreaking gem materials globally, sometimes even preceding esteemed laboratories.
In 1982, AGTA established a grievance committee, providing members a platform to lodge complaints against other members’ business practices or conduct. This internal critique underscores AGTA’s dedication to moral integrity, where its harshest critics often emerge from within its own ranks.
AGTA’s commitment to ethical conduct is further exemplified by its Code of Ethics, first established in 1983, revised in 1997, and recently updated again. The code, now accessible to every industry stakeholder, mandates annual adherence, setting AGTA apart as the only industry association with such an unparalleled commitment to ethical standards.
The organization expanded its influence with initiatives like the Spectrum design competition in 1984 and the Cutting Edge Awards for loose gemstones in 1991. These endeavors consistently celebrate and spotlight the zenith of American excellence in the gemstone industry.
In 1985, AGTA authored the groundbreaking Gemstone Enhancement Manual, disseminating it initially to the trade and later worldwide. AGTA’s pioneering efforts compelled labs to disclose treatments or enhancements in their reports, setting a new industry standard.
Recognizing the critical importance of provenance, AGTA advocated for documenting gemstone origins in lab reports whenever possible. AGTA’s influence extended to the Gemological Institute of America (GIA), with the organization delineating nuanced distinctions between a fracture and a fissure, a position astutely embraced by the GIA.
AGTA’s Industry Rules Committee, instituted in 1985, addressed gemological complexities and engaged in crucial dialogues with laboratories to bring coherence to nomenclature issues. The committee set forth stringent rules regarding memorandums and invoices, ensuring swift returns of gemstone owners’ memo property upon request within 48 hours. AGTA’s commitment to transparency in gemstone treatments and enhancements has positioned it as a guardian for consumers.
In 1985, AGTA led the way in implementing disclosure codes, establishing the ethical standard for the industry and ensuring adherence to Federal Trade Commission (FTC) guidelines. The association’s influence even reached Washington, DC, as AGTA engaged with the Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) in 1986 to scrutinize blue topaz. The subsequent NRC investigation confirmed the industry’s compliance with radiation standards.
In 1998, AGTA unveiled the AGTA Gemological Testing Center, operational for over a decade. In 2002, the organization undertook the task of developing the Tanzanite Protocols, inspired by the Kimberley Process, to ensure that the tanzanite trade did not inadvertently fund terrorism.
Throughout its existence, AGTA has consistently stood at the forefront of protecting the gemstone industry, from the mine to the consumer, demonstrating an enduring legacy of ethical excellence.
