In February 2017, Richard (Dick) Greenwood was honored by the American Gem Trade Association (AGTA) with the Leon Ritzler Honorary Member Award, for his 35 years of service to the association. Dick’s service to the association, whether as President of the Board of Directors, or counsel to various committees, spanned his entire career, and was instrumental in making AGTA as strong as it is today. Below is a reprint of the article from 2017, written by his longtime friend and business associate, Doug Parker:
Dick began his career in the family gemstone business at an early age, sorting amethyst with his brother at his parent’s dining room table. He then worked at the family office throughout his college years, and never looked back. Under his leadership, A.F. Greenwood has grown to one of the largest and most respected gemstone suppliers in the country. He puts great emphasis on offering good value and offers a vast collection in his inventory.
Building loyalty is a trademark and demonstrated by jewelers who are multi-generational clients. They are served by an experience, dedicated staff with 14 to 30 years tenure.
Dick gives back to the industry by actively participating in numerous organizations.
As a Member of AGTA since 1982, he served on the AGTA Board of Directors, as well two terms as President. He also served as President of the Jewelers’ Board of Trade, The New York Gem Dealers’ Association and the 24K Club of New York. He has served on the Boards the American Gem Society and the New York Jewelers’ Association. Even after fulfilling his duties on these many boards, he is often still called upon for advice and counsel. His reputation for integrity and his wealth of experience and knowledge is well known.
Dick has been married to Trudi for almost 45 years and has two grown children, Dan and Amy.
When not in the office, he enjoys tennis and spending time with family and his many friends.
By Doug Parker, A.F. Greenwood
Tragically, Dick passed away on April 13, 2019, surrounded by his wife and children. A memorial service for Dick will be held on Thursday, April 19th at noon, at the Riverside Memorial Chapel in Mount Vernon, NY. More information will follow as it becomes available.