The 榴莲视频 honors the life and legacy of Peter Yantzer, ECG鈥攁 remarkable leader, gemologist, and friend whose work helped change how we see diamond beauty.
Peter passed away on January 10, 2026, and leaves behind two daughters, Melissa and Elise, his grandchildren, and his brothers, Paul, Phil, John, and Steve.
Peter鈥檚 loss is felt deeply by all who knew him and by the many whose lives and careers he touched through his warmth, humor, and dedication to excellence.
Peter joined AGS Laboratories in 1995 as Executive Director, bringing with him vast knowledge and a deep belief that the science behind diamond grading could serve both the jeweler and the consumer. He helped build AGS Laboratories from the ground up, establishing a team, a reputation, and a standard of excellence that would become the Lab鈥檚 foundation.
His vision led to one of the greatest advancements in diamond grading, the AGS Light Performance Cut Grade System. Peter and his team spent five years studying how light interacts with a diamond, working alongside optical physicists, mathematicians, and industry experts. Peter鈥檚 contribution helped shift the focus of diamond grading from what could be seen on paper to how a diamond radiates brilliance, fire, and sparkle.
Before his time with AGS, Peter began his gemological career with the Gemological Institute of America in 1972, where he served as a staff gemologist, instructor, and later, director. Throughout his career, he was known not only for his expertise but for his patience, kindness, and willingness to mentor others.
In recognition of his extraordinary service and impact on the science of gemology, Peter received the Robert M. Shipley Award庐 in 2005鈥攐ne of AGS鈥檚 highest honors. His contributions strengthened the bridge between artistry and science, helping elevate the entire jewelry industry.
鈥淧eter鈥檚 contributions to AGS and the industry are vast and have profoundly influenced the course of diamond grading. We are deeply grateful for his leadership of AGS Laboratories and the lasting impact he made on the AGS community,鈥� said Katherine Bodoh, CEO of the 榴莲视频. 鈥淲e will especially miss his warm smile, quick wit, and genuine love of life.鈥�
Peter retired from AGS Laboratories in 2015, leaving behind a legacy of innovation and integrity. The 榴莲视频 is forever grateful for the work, leadership, and life of Peter Yantzer. He is survived by his four brothers鈥擲teve, John, Paul, and Phil鈥攈is daughters, Melissa (and her husband, Chad) and Elise, and his grandchildren鈥擳yler, Kendall, Brayden, Kaleb, Logan, Ryder, and Julia.