RJC to Align Code with OECD Rules

RAPAPORT... The Responsible Jewellery Council (RJC) is proposing to alignits due-diligence requirements with those of the Organisation for EconomicCooperation and Development (OECD). "This move will deliver tangible benefits to members, whowill be able to point customers to a standard fully aligned with the OECDrecommendations," the council said last week. The OECD guidelines are in line with the KimberleyProcess Certification Scheme, as well as the World Diamond Council System ofWarranties, the RJC noted. The organization decided on the move after receivingfeedback from a range of industry stakeholders, it said. While the RJC incorporated similar due-diligence requirements into its Code ofPractices in 2013, the current changes bring its advice fully in line with OECDguidance, it added. The RJC is in the final phase of reviewing its code. RJCmembers, non-governmental organizations and other interested parties have untilOctober 27 to respond to the proposals. The council plans to publish theupdated document in March, and will implement the changes in phases over three yearsending 2021. Image: Diamond jewelry on display in a store. (Shutterstock)