Ruth Batson, CEO of both American Gem Society (AGS) and AGS Laboratories, has announced she is retiring in the summer of 2017.
“I have been a part of AGS for 23 years, which has been my entire career in the jewellery industry,” Batson said. “I am deeply passionate about the mission of AGS and AGS Laboratories. It is a privilege and honour to serve the membership. I will forever feel connected to the wonderful AGS and AGS Laboratories staff, the members, and my jewellery industry friends. We have an excellent team, and I know the Society and Laboratory will be in good hands.” Batson says she plans to split her retirement between a ranch in Montana and her home in Las Vegas.
AGS’s board of directors says it is forming a committee to find her replacement.
“Ruth will participate in the search and onboarding process of the new CEO,” said AGS president, Louis Smith. “We are confident we will find a great successor to guide the organization forward. Ruth has generously provided us with ample time to make a seamless transition”¦ Ruth has dedicated herself to ensuring the mission of AGS is fulfilled. She has built a strong team and made a lasting impact on the history of AGS. We are forever grateful for her service and contribution to the American Gem Society and AGS Laboratories. She will always be part of the AGS family.”
Batson also serves on the boards of the Women’s Jewelry Association (WJA), Jewelers Vigilance Committee (JVC), Jewelers for Children, U.S. Jewelry Council, JCK Show Advisory Board, and is chair of the Ethical Initiatives Committee for Jewelers of America.
In 2010, she received the Excellence in Service Award from the Women’s Jewelry Association, was the Jewelers for Children Facets of Hope honoree in 2012, and picked up the Doyenne of the Year Award in 2013 from the Indian Diamond & Colored Stone Association (IDCA). In 2014, Batson won the Lifetime Achievement Award from the Women’s Jewelry Association. For the last four years, JCK magazine has included her in the “JCK Power List: Movers, Shakers, and Tastemakers in the Jewelry Industry.”
