RJC to launch lab-grown materials standard

The Responsible Jewellery Council (RJC) has announced that it is set to develop a standard for laboratory-grown materials (LGMs).

The standard is designed to establish best practice, such as the requirement for full disclosure for materials when used in jewellery products.

Acting separately from the RJC code of practices, the LGM standard recognises the difference in risk profile that LGMs carry from natural products.

Available for companies dealing in LGMs, the reasons for the standard’s creation are “all about consumer confidence”.

Iris Van der Veken, executive director at the industry body, said: “Setting a standard for LGMs is an important strategic initiative by RJC, underlining our commitment to ensure that all jewellery is responsibly sourced, manufactured and marketed.

“This standard will provide a clear robust framework not only for manufacturers and retailers, but also for reassuring customers that the manufacturers and sellers of LGMs follow rigorous processes that ensure the credibility and transparency of their operations.”

David Bouffard, chair of the RJC, added: “As a global standards organization for the industry, we are driving the new initiative through a transparent process with all stakeholders to develop the framework.

“With the increasing consumer awareness of LGMs, it is imperative that we set these standards to ensure that all laboratory-grown diamonds and gemstones are responsibly manufactured, sourced and sold, and that consumer confidence can be maintained through the application of a clear and consistent approach for businesses dealing with LGMs.” 

Before finalisation, the standard will undergo “robust review” managed by the body’s multi-stakeholder standards committee.