To host its next Circle of Distinction Dinner, the American Gem Society (AGS) has selected The Plaza Hotel in New York City for the first time, which is home to a list of celebrity visitors including Beatles, Truman Capote and literary character –Eloise. “The Plaza has a rich history and evokes the best-of-the-best. It’s the ideal venue for the American Gem Society and the Circle of Distinction Dinner,” said Ruth Batson, Executive Director and CEO of the American Gem Society. “Following a one-year hiatus, we are thrilled to bring our event to such an iconic setting as the Plaza.”

The Circle of Distinction Dinner is scheduled for July 25, 2010. It honors individuals who stand apart in their dedication and commitment to the jewellery industry in three categories: the AGS Lifetime Achievement Award, the AGS Triple Zero Awards, and the Richard T. Liddicoat Journalism Award. “The award recipients truly embrace and promote the Robert M. Shipley mission of setting, maintaining, and promoting the highest standards of ethical conduct and professional behavior,” said Batson. The award recipients of next year would be announced in the spring of 2010.

Some of the past Lifetime Achievement award recipients include: Robert Crowningshield, Ron Harder, John J. Kennedy, Richard T. Liddicoat, Nathan Light, Mike Roman, Matthew Runci, Matthew Stuller and Alfred Woodill.