AGS Names David Gardner As New President

David Gardner of David Gardner’s Jewelers Named 

New President of American Gem Society’s Board of Directors

Gardner brings 40 years of innovative expertise in jewelry industry

Celebrating 40 years at DG Jewelers

May 29, 2012, Las Vegas. The American Gem Society elected David Gardner, Certified Gemologist (CG), of David Gardner Jewelers, as President of the Society’s Board of Directors, taking over the role from outgoing President, Cathy Calhoun, CGA, of Calhoun Jewelers. The appointment was made during the Society’s annual Conclave in Miami, on April 28^th.

“I’m very much looking forward to working with David,” said Ruth Batson, CEO and Executive Director of AGS. “He’s been a tireless advocate in his work and efforts on behalf of the American Gem Society. His enthusiasm and passion for the Society is well known to all of our members, and it will no doubt be an exciting two years with at the President’s helm!”

Gardner’s new role coincides with the celebration of 40 years in the jewelry industry since starting out at the age of 16. Since then, David started David Gardner’s Jewelers which has earned a reputation of excellence in the jewelry industry leading to national recognition as one of America’s Top 10 Coolest Jewelry Stores. David and wife, Julia, have continually chosen to serve the local community despite offers to expand operations. Long-term dedication combined with constant philanthropic efforts recently led the B-CS Chamber of Commerce to honor David and Julia as Citizens of the Year in 2011. In addition to helping others, David is deeply passionate about designing one-of-a-kind jewelry for his customers.

“I love the rich heritage and tradition of being a jeweler, but I also like to break out of the box and bend the rules to keep our industry fresh and relevant in an ever-changing world,” said Gardner.  “Jewelry is a language that is universal and I am eager to devote myself to this unique opportunity and make a difference that will reflect well upon the AGS and its dedicated membership.”

AGS also announced the list of its 2012-2013 Board Of Directors including:- President Elect –Louis Smith, CG; Secretary – Scott Berg, CG; Sr. Advisor- Bill Sites, CGA; Treasurer- Kelly Kinas; Director at Large - Dave Bonaparte; Director at Large –John Carter, CGA; Director at Large -Kelly Newton, CGA; Director at Large -Charles Rosario; Chair- Conclave Sub-Committee, Louis Smith, CG; Chair - International Guilds Council, Laura Stanley, CGA; CG; Chair -Education Committee, Michael Richards, CG; Chair -Marketing Committee, Jeff High; Chair -Membership Committee, Bill Farmer, CGA; Chair -AGS Lab Board of Managers, Doug Parker, CG. The Board also added three new members, each appointed as Director at Large: Mike Wilson, CG, Lisa Bridge, CG and Michael Schechter.

About the American Gem Society

The American Gem Society, founded in 1934 by Robert M. Shipley, is a not-for-profit trade association dedicated to proven ethics, knowledge, and consumer protection within the jewelry industry. The American Gem Society is a professional organization awarding credentials for its members, who are held to the highest ethical and professional standards in the industry and must pass annual recertification examinations to maintain their titles. Less than five percent of jewelers in the country have met the exacting requirements necessary for membership.

For more information regarding the American Gem Society, please call 866.805.6500, or visit  www.AmericanGemSociety.org.