What is Responsible Jewelry Council Certification? Explained
Being a member of the Responsible Jewelry Council (RJC) signifies that a company or organization in the jewelry industry is committed to promoting ethical, social, and environmental responsibility throughout their operations.
To become an RJC member, a jewelry company must go through a rigorous assessment process to demonstrate their adherence to the RJC's Code of Practices (COP). The COP covers various aspects of responsible business practices, including:
- Ethical practices: Upholding human rights, labor rights, and ensuring fair treatment of workers.
- Social accountability: Ensuring safe and healthy working conditions for employees.
- Environmental stewardship: Minimizing the environmental impact of mining, manufacturing, and other processes.
- Supply chain due diligence: Ensuring responsible sourcing of materials, including diamonds, gemstones, and precious metals, to avoid contributing to conflicts or human rights abuses.
- Transparency and disclosure: Providing transparent information about the company's practices and supply chain.
As an RJC member, a jewelry company is expected to actively work towards continuous improvement in their responsible practices and contribute to the advancement of ethical standards in the jewelry industry.
Anyone in the fashion and jewelry industry can gain knowledge and resources from the RJC. Visit the official Responsible Jewellery Council website to learn about events or opportunities to learn more or contact a member of the RJC to get more information.
