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Las Vegas, NV--The American Gem Society (AGS) has launched the Advanced Certified Gemologist Appraiser (ACGA) program, an advanced credential open to all AGS members. The enhancements reflect evolving standards in gemological expertise, appraisal procedures and valuation, and professional practice.

AGS said the ACGA underscores its mission of consumer protection, ethics and education, and reflects the advanced expertise required of professionals who provide jewelry appraisals.

The ACGA credential is designed to represent a comprehensive combination of advanced gemological knowledge, expertise in appraisal procedures and valuation, and professional practice standards. Requirements for the ACGA credential include:

• Maintenance of the CGA credential with an AGS Business for a minimum of three years
• Demonstrated experience completing appraisals within the jewelry industry
• Completion of the Uniform Standards of Professional Appraisal Practice (USPAP®) 15-hour Personal Property course and regular refresher courses
• Maintenance of an Accredited Gem Lab® (AGL), including passing the AGL annual maintenance audit
• Adherence to AGS ethical and professional standards
• Successful completion of the annual American Gem Society recertification exam

“The ACGA is the result of a member-informed evolution of our advanced appraisal credentialing,” said Wade Abel, AGS director of Education and Gemology. “It positions AGS appraisers with one of the newest and most advanced credentials in the industry.”

To support ACGA credential holders, AGS is providing a promotional kit with practical tools for communications and brand updates, including website copy, talking points, social media content and the new ACGA credential certificate and logo pin.

AGS encourages credentialed members who are interested in obtaining their ACGA to contact the education department for support at education@ags.org.