New York: The Responsible Jewellery Council (RJC) is to add colored gemstones to its material coverage following discussions with its members, external stakeholders and the colored-gemstone sector over the past five years, the trade body announced in a press release at the BaselWorld tradeshow. Currently, the RJC covers diamonds, gold and platinum-group metals. The RJC will next revise its code of practices in 2017.

“It made perfect sense to announce this key initiative at the Baselworld fair,” said Andrew Bone, the RJC’s executive director. “RJC enjoys a strong supporter status with the fair and to have the opportunity to present this announcement in the foremost transparent and ethical trading environment is important to RJC.”