The Responsible Jewellery Council (RJC) announced that the International Gemological Institute (IGI), well known as a leading authority on diamonds, coloured stones, and pearls, has joined the Council’s membership.
Building a responsible supply chain from mine to retail, the RJC includes more than 130 members, representing all sectors of the diamond and gold supply chain, trade associations and service providers. Council members must apply the RJC System by upholding the RJC Code of Practices and undergoing third-party auditing to become certified. This unique system builds on recognized international initiatives like the Kimberley Process and ISO standards, such as SA8000 and ISO 14001.
Michael Rae, RJC’s Chief Executive Officer, welcomed the Institute’s new membership by saying IGI has established a worldwide reputation in the diamond grading and gem and jewellery appraisal professions, and through its School of Gemology. “We see a natural synergy here between our organisations to build the best practice model for the diamond and gold jewellery supply chain. We are pleased to offer IGI a way to provide consumers further assurance of the maximum quality of services available.”
“We are proud to be a member of RJC and look forward to working together to ensure the responsible and ethical advancement of the industry and collaborating on the development of RJC’s education initiatives and appraisal guidelines,” stated Jerry Ehrenwald, President and CEO of IGI. “We feel the Council’s Code of Practices aligns with IGI’s principles, values and mission to provide consumers with accurate and reliable product information.”
Since 1975, IGI reports have proven to be one of the most internationally recognized evaluations for gemstones and fine jewellery. At IGI, hundreds of scientific technicians and gemologists examine stones and jewellery items each year in units of tens of thousands. IGI has established bases of operations in 15 vital industry locations throughout the world.
