(PRESS RELEASE) DALLAS, TX — The American Gem Trade Association (AGTA) has released the 20th Edition of the AGTA Source Directory. The AGTA Source Directory was printed and shipped to thousands of companies in the industry.
“The AGTA Source Directory is literally the ‘yellow pages’ for the colored gemstones and cultured pearl industries,” said Douglas K. Hucker, AGTA CEO. “From gemstone dealers, to manufacturing, to retailers and education and marketing – the resources available in our directory are countless. And while it’s a great benefit of being an AGTA member, it’s an even better benefit for the industry at large.”
The AGTA Source Directory features comprehensive guides to search for colored gemstones and cultured pearls from AGTA Firm members, as well as the vast array of products and services available from AGTA Affiliate members. In addition, the Source Directory contains the Gemstone Information Manual (GIM), which is an industry information guide for natural gemstones, enhanced natural gemstones and man-made stones, The GIM also includes a thorough chart of all gemstones with disclosure requirements and care and handling recommendations. The requirements listed in the GIM are more stringent than the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) guidelines and are required to be followed by AGTA members.
“The added benefit of using the AGTA Source Directory to fulfill whatever need you have,” continued Hucker, “is that every company in the Source Directory is an AGTA member, which means they’ve signed our stringent Code of Ethics and have agreed to follow our strict guidelines for disclosure. It’s easier to be confident buying from a supplier when you know they follow those guides.”
The AGTA Source Directory is also available online in a flipbook, searchable format. Additional copies of the AGTA Source Directory can be requested at info@agta.org.
Four Decades of Excellence: How Wilkerson Transformed a Jeweler's Retirement into Celebration
After 45 years serving the Milwaukee community, Treiber & Straub Jewelers owner Michael Straub faced a significant life transition. At 75, the veteran jeweler made a personal decision many business owners understand: "I think it's time. I want to enjoy my wife with my grandchildren for the next 10, 15 years."
Wilkerson's expertise transformed this major business transition into an extraordinary success. Their comprehensive approach to managing the going-out-of-business sale created unprecedented customer response—with lines forming outside the store and limits on how many shoppers could enter at once due to fire safety regulations.
The results exceeded all expectations. "Wilkerson did a phenomenal job," Straub enthuses. "They were there for you through the whole thing, helped you with promoting it, helping you on day-to-day business. I can't speak enough for how well they did." The partnership didn't just facilitate a business closing; it created a celebratory finale to decades of service while allowing Straub to confidently step into his well-earned retirement.
