CIBJO, CIBJO Jaipur, CIBJO Precious Metal Commission Report, CIBJO Congress Jaipur: The second day of the congress saw the convening of CIBJO’s Precious Metals Commission, where a range of significant issues within the sector took center stage. These discussions encompassed new regulations in the United States pertaining to environmental claims in Jewellery marketing, recycled gold, and the health implications of certain metals.
Chaired by Platinum Guild International CEO Huw Daniel, and supported by Vice President Karina Ratzlaff, the Precious Commission panel delved into the following key topics:
- Environmental Marketing Regulations in the U.S.: Sara Yood, Deputy General Counsel at the Jewelers Vigilance Committee (JVC), reported on the organization’s efforts in seeking guidance from the U.S. Federal Trade Commission regarding environmental marketing. Awaiting official guidance, the JVC advised against using the term “sustainability” in Jewellery marketing until clear directives are provided. The Federal Trade Commission’s Green Guides Review, initiated in December 2022, is currently ongoing.
- Strengthening Environmental Marketing Claims: The JVC, along with 16 additional signatories, including CIBJO, submitted proposals aimed at reinforcing the Jewellery industry’s commitment to truthful and fair environmental marketing claims. Of particular significance was feedback regarding the definition of “recycled,” which currently only applies to products intentionally diverted from the waste stream. The JVC advocated for alternative terminology such as “repurposed,” “reprocessed,” or “reclaimed.”
- Responsible Sourcing and Recycling: Jonathan Jodry, Chair of ISO Technical Committee 174 for the International Organization for Standardization (ISO), provided insights into an ongoing project investigating whether standards related to the responsible sourcing of precious metals, including recycling, align with ISO standards. The results of this project are expected to be reported at the next CIBJO Congress.
- Reducing Risks to Consumers: Birmingham Assay Office highlighted the need for industry standards aimed at reducing risks to consumers with hypersensitivity to gold, often linked to allergic reactions to metals such as nickel and cobalt used in gold alloys. The implementation of international standards and clearer labeling was advocated to protect consumers and mitigate risks associated with allergenic reactions.
- Collaborative Efforts: The International Precious Metals Institute, represented by Executive Director Larry Drummond, expressed its interest in fostering greater collaboration with CIBJO on events and information dissemination to benefit the members of both organizations.
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These discussions within the Precious Metals Commission underscore the industry’s commitment to ethical practices, environmental responsibility, and consumer well-being. Stay tuned for more updates on these critical topics in the precious metals and Jewellery sector.
