An Arkansas-based jeweller has been presented with the American Gem Society’s (AGS’s) most prestigious honour, the Robert M. Shipley Award.
Kelly Newton, owner and president of Newton’s Jewelers in Fort Smith, Ark., received the award at the society’s annual conclave in Seattle, Wash. A member of the AGS for 25 years, Newton has served on the group’s board of directors since 2010 and as chair of the membership committee since 2014. He has also served as chair of the society’s grievance and review committee for the past seven years.
“Kelly sets the standard for what an AGS Jeweler should be and what the Shipley Award stands for,” said Doug Parker, chair of the award’s nominating committee. “He gives freely of himself to AGS, the industry, his community, and his church. We are very proud to honour him with the 2019 Robert M. Shipley Award.”
