Southern Jewelry News

(LAS VEGAS) – After taking a year off from the festivities, the American Gem Society celebrated the return of their Circle of Distinction Dinner at the iconic Plaza Hotel on July 25. The event roared back this year with a full house. A Who’s Who of industry notables came out in full force to honor Terry Burman, the 2010 recipient of The Society’s Lifetime Achievement Award, as well as the esteemed Triple Zero Award winners.

Mr. Burman, the Chief Executive Officer of Signet Jewelers, Ltd., and Chairman of Sterling Jewelers, Inc. received The Lifetime Achievement Award for his impact on the jewelry industry.

Terry Burman (2nd from right), Chief Executive Officer of Signet Jewelers Ltd., and Chairman of Sterling Jewelers, Inc. was the recipient of the American Gem Society’s Lifetime Achievement Award. Pictured with (l-r): Cathy Calhoun, Ruth Batson and Bill Montalto.

The Society also presented the prestigious Triple Zero Awards to several industry veterans: Phyllis Bergman of Mercury Ring Corp; Allen Brill, President and Chief Executive Officer of Rolex Watch U.S.A.; and the Clark Family of B.C. Clark, Inc., specifically B.C. Clark, Jr., Chairman Emeritus; Jim Clark, Chairman; Coleman Clark, President; and Mitchell Clark, Executive Vice President.

“The Circle of Distinction is our way at the American Gem Society of saying thank you for service to the industry,” said Cathy Calhoun, President of the AGS Board of Directors. “This event is a great way for the AGS to honor the industry’s best and brightest, as well as have a good time catching up with friends and colleagues. Judging by the turnout, everyone agrees with me!”

The Clark family of B.C. Clark, Inc. was one of the recipients of the American Gem Society’s Triple Zero Award. (l-r) Ruth Batson, AGS Executive Director and CEO, Coleman Clark, CG; Jim Clark, RJ, Mitchell Clark, CG and Cathy Calhoun.

“The AGS and the Plaza have a wonderful history, and both represent the best of the best. I knew it would be a spectacular evening, but this has exceeded my expectations,” said Ruth Batson, Executive Director and CEO of the American Gem Society. “Bettering the jewelry industry is what the American Gem Society has been about since 1934. Our goal has always been the same: dedication to ethics, education and consumer protection - the Circle of Distinction embodies these goals.”

For more information regarding the American Gem Society, please call 866-805-6500, or visit their website at www.AmericanGemSociety.org.