The American Gem Society (AGS) and the Gemological Institute of America (GIA) have awarded two exceptional individuals—Blake Graham and Jessica Kohoutek—with scholarships that recognize not only their talent, but also their dedication to the jewelry industry.
💎 Blake Graham, who started his journey in jewelry retail, is now the director at Hannon Gemologists & Master Jewelers in Los Angeles. Under his mentor’s guidance, he’s mastered custom design, appraisals, and repair. He’s been awarded the prestigious Beatrice Shipley Scholarship, which covers his tuition for the GIA Graduate Gemologist program and AGS Way Course, along with registration for the 2025 AGS and GIA Converge conference. Graham calls the scholarship “a meaningful affirmation of my dedication to gemology.”
💼 Jessica Kohoutek, a GIA Graduate Gemologist and custom designer at Redlands Jewelers in California, earned the Women in Leadership Scholarship. As a rising leader in the industry, she’s also a member of the National Association of Jewelry Appraisers. Her scholarship includes registration for Converge 2025, mentorship from AGS, and a $500 gift card. “To be recognized by AGS at this point in my journey is deeply encouraging,” she shared.
👏 These two professionals are shaping the future of gemology with brilliance, leadership, and heart.