It celebrated 3 three well-known professionals.
(Press Release) A proud tradition in the American Gem Society took place as the Society once again honored the outstanding accomplishments of the jewelry industry’s best and brightest at the Society’s 17th Circle of Distinction Dinner.
The prestigious event was held at New York City’s historic Plaza Hotel, and celebrated the work of three well-known and highly-respected industry professionals. Dr. James Shigley, a Distinguished Fellow with the Gemological Institute of America, received the coveted Lifetime Achievement Award, and both Myriam Gumuchian, vice president and director of Gumuchian, and Peter Engel, president of Fred Meyer Jewelers, received the AGS Triple Zero Award.
In their acceptance speeches, the honorees told personal stories about their careers and inspiration and expressed their appreciation.
“I would like to thank the AGS for selecting me for this lifetime achievement award,” said Shigley. “I have had the privilege of working for GIA for the past 35 years as part of our research team, where we have tried to address the gemological challenges that face the jewelry industry. We have shared the results of our research through published articles and educational presentations, including regular talks to AGS members.”
Engel said: “It’s a distinct pleasure to receive this award and know that I’ve done my part to uphold the
ethical standards in our business. It’s something I take very seriously and impart to every employee at Fred Meyer Jewelers.”
Gumuchian said: “I have always known about the American Gem Society ever since I came into the business, my
father’s company was a member and I was always very proud of it. To me, it was similar to the Good Housekeeping seal of approval. So naturally, when my sister and I joined my mother’s jewelry design company we applied for membership and have been a member ever since.”
The AGS Triple Zero Award was aptly named after the highest grade in the AGS Diamond Grading Standards and is presented to members of the jewelry industry for their countless accomplishments and contributions.
The American Gem Society would like to thank its sponsors for their generous support in making the event both memorable and a success: JCK Events, Wells Fargo and Jewelers Mutual Insurance Co.
To learn more about American Gem Society, visit www.americangemsociety.org.