Press Releases

AGS Names CGA Instructors

They will teach the Certified Gemologist Appraisal courses.

Published

5 years ago

January 21, 2019

INSTORE Staff

(PRESS RELEASE) LAS VEGAS, NV – The American Gem Society announces the addition of two new Certified Gemologist Appraiser instructors: Laura Stanley, CGA, and Joel Hassler, CGA.

The two will teach the Certified Gemologist Appraisal courses at Conclave, which takes place April 8-10, 2019, in Seattle, WA. Both Stanley and Hassler have been mentored by Cos Altobelli, ECGA, who has been at the forefront of the AGS Appraisals program since its inception in 1983. Stanley and Hassler have extensive experience in appraising and have experience as CGAs; she first achieved the CGA title in 1996 and he earned his in 2004.

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“I’m grateful for the AGS and the many years of involvement and support. It’s exciting to begin this new paragraph in my life and to give the reins to Laura and Joel to continue on with the CGA program,” said Altobelli, who is now an Emeritus Certified Gemological Appraiser. “Laura and Joel are very well versed and extremely qualified to conduct the CGA Clinic and CGA Exam at Conclave. I will still be involved as the Appraisals Chair and play a major role in this avenue.”

“Cos Altobelli is an American Gem Society legend!” said John Carter, CGA, and president of the American Gem Society board of directors. “He began the CGA program, nurtured it for decades, and helped to create the best-trained appraisers in our industry. Cos’s contributions cannot be summed up easily, but I will say that his dedication and tireless commitment to his beloved CGAs have made him an icon that will be remembered for generations.”

Stanley is a third-generation jeweler at Laura Stanley Personal Jeweler. Since 1989, she has worked in the family business, Stanley Jewelers Gemologist in North Little Rock, AR, specializing in custom design, remounts and personal shopping for her customers.

Hassler has been in the jewelry industry since 2000 and started Von Hasle Jewelry Advisers in 2017. Based out of Greenfield, WI, the company’s focus is on appraisals, both retail and B2B, as well as consulting and training on a wide range of topics.

This Third-Generation Jeweler Was Ready for Retirement. He Called Wilkerson

Retirement is never easy, especially when it means the end to a business that was founded in 1884. But for Laura and Sam Sipe, it was time to put their own needs first. They decided to close J.C. Sipe Jewelers, one of Indianapolis’ most trusted names in fine jewelry, and call Wilkerson. “Laura and I decided the conditions were right,” says Sam. Wilkerson handled every detail in their going-out-of-business sale, from marketing to manning the sales floor. “The main goal was to sell our existing inventory that’s all paid for and turn that into cash for our retirement,” says Sam. “It’s been very, very productive.” Would they recommend Wilkerson to other jewelers who want to enjoy their golden years? Absolutely! “Call Wilkerson,” says Laura. “They can help you achieve your goals so you’ll be able to move into retirement comfortably.”