The American Gem Trade Association (AGTA) has released the 17th edition of its “Gemstone Information Manual” and updated its “Code of Ethics”, introducing revisions covering gemstone treatments, care guidance and terminology.
The revised Manual adds three symbols under “Specific Forms of Enhancement”: ASBL for assembled stones, including doublets and triplets; HR for heating with residue; and W for waxing.
The Gemstone Information Chart has also been updated. Irradiation (R) and heat (H) are now identified as common, stable treatments for pink Morganite.
The “Special Advice” column includes updated care guidance, including cautions against ultrasonic cleaning for certain gemstones such as Jade and Moonstone.
John W. Ford Sr., CEO of AGTA, said the 17th edition provides current guidance to support responsible disclosure and ethical business practices.
AGTA President Bruce Bridges credited the Industry Rules Committee for the revisions, saying the updates would help members apply consistent disclosure and care standards across the supply chain.
AGTA has also revised its Code of Ethics on terminology for man-made gemstones. Under a policy approved by the Board of Directors in June 2026, members must use “synthetic” for manufactured materials with essentially the same chemical composition, crystal structure, and physical and optical properties as their natural counterparts.
The term “lab-grown” may not be used alone to describe such gemstones. Retail jewellers may use either “synthetic” or “man-made” alongside the gemstone name, such as “synthetic Ruby.”
