Articles and News

Louisville, KY--Susan M. Jacques, president and CEO of the Gemological Institute of America, is the recipient of the Robert M. Shipley Award, the American Gem Society's most prestigious honor. Jacques was presented with the award Tuesday at AGS’s annual Conclave.

"Susan has received this most prestigious honor due to her commitment to the science of gemology, her history of jewelry industry service and leadership, and her embodiment of the high ideals of the american gem society, " said ruth batson-mccluer, who presented the award to jacques. Batson-mccluer is the chair of the robert m. Shipley award committee, past ceo of ags, and the 2016 recipient of the robert m. Shipley award.

Over the years, many industry organizations benefited from Jacques's skills and expertise through her service as a board member and advisor, AGS said in a statement. She has been awarded many of the industry's most prestigious awards, including the Lifetime Achievement Award from the Women's Jewelry Association in 2010 and the Stanley Schechter Award from the Jewelers Vigilance Committee in 2020.

“Susan is a tireless advocate for the industry,” said Katherine Bodoh, CEO of AGS. “She dedicates her personal and professional time, expertise, and energy to highlighting the importance of the gem and jewelry trade to communities and countries throughout the world. She understands and appreciates the deep connection and trust retailers share with their customers and the special moments that jewelry represents. I am continually inspired by Susan’s steadfast commitment to the mission of consumer protection shared by AGS and GIA.”

Susan was joined at the luncheon by many of her GIA colleagues and members of her family. Since the Shipley Award was first presented in 1968, Jacques is the sixth recipient from GIA to receive the award.