RJC meets with jewellery experts to discuss future of responsible practices
The panel comes a few weeks after the RJC was criticised by the Human Rights Watch for being a ‘weak assurance’
The Responsible Jewellery Council (RJC) hosted an industry panel discussion at the 35th Hong Kong International Jewellery Show.
Moderated by Edward Johnson, RJC’s newly appointed director of business development, the discussion focused on the commercial case for responsible business practices in the jewellery industry.
Jewellery industry experts, Ken Lo and Victor Chan chairman and vice chairman of the Hong Kong Jewellery & Jade Manufacturers Association (HKJJA), Jonathan Kendall, senior VP of Forevermark and Guido Grohmann, md of BV Schmuck Uhren joined Johnson on stage to spotlight the importance of responsible business practices in the future of the jewellery industry.
Lo highlighted the relevance of the RJC to the industry and confirmed HKJJA’s ongoing support for the RJC’s vision of a responsible world-wide supply chain that promotes trust and accountability in the global fine jewellery and watch industry.
Additionally panelists discussed the increasing demand for transparency and accountability from consumers and were in agreement about the need for companies to establish clear corporate social responsibility objectives in response to this shifting trend.
Delegates were informed of the possible impact of Generation Z, the post millennial age group and future consumers who are “inseparably connected to technology, have a high expectation of transparency and are risk averse”.
The discussion highlighted the value of RJC certification in helping its members demonstrate leadership and establish a culture of excellence and integrity which should translate to the consumer.
Panelists also touched briefly on the vital role of technology in the detection of laboratory grown diamonds and product disclosure.
Johnson, commenting on the event, said: “This was a thought provoking conversation that highlighted the need for continuous improvement within the jewellery industry to secure its future.
“Joining the RJC and achieving certification against our Code of Practices enables businesses worldwide to not only meet these shifting consumer demands but also to stay ahead of legislation, manage risk and protect their reputation for a bright and prosperous future.”
The panel comes a few weeks after the RJC was criticised by the Human Rights Watch for being a “weak assurance” of responsible practices.
