American Gem Society (AGS)
American Gem Society (AGS) is an association of independent retail jewelers and suppliers that is dedicated to proven ethics, knowledge and consumer protection.
American Gem Society Laboratories (AGSL)
Established in 1996, the AGSL is the leading gemological laboratory renowned for specializing in diamonds and setting the highest standard for cut grading.
Bar Channel Setting
In a bar channel setting, individual metal bars separate each gemstone. To lock a gem in place, the metal is molded around it.
Bezel Setting
In a bezel setting, a metal rim secures a gemstone in place by the
Brilliance
Total brightness of light reflected from the surface and from within a diamond.
Carat Weight
Commonly referenced as the size of a diamond, carat is actually a standard unit of measure that defines the weight of a diamond. One carat is equivalent to 200 milligrams. Two diamonds of the same carat weight may appear to be different sizes depending on how well the diamond is cut. Diamonds cut to retain precious extra weight are usually smaller in diameter than a well cut diamond of the same weight.
Center Stone
The center stone is the central, dominant stone in a piece of jewelry with multiple stones.
Channel Setting
In a channel setting, ridges in the metal create a channel to hold the gemstones in place.
