In recent years many people have become concerned about the ways in which precious stones, particularly diamonds, have been mined. Reports of abusive practices and inhumane working conditions have even led some jewelry buyers to purchase diamond alternatives or rely on lab-created stones.
In an effort to quell the concerns of the public and ensure mining practices that are both ethical and environmentally responsible, many jewelry companies have joined forces under The Responsible Jewellery Council. Chopard, which recently celebrated its 150th anniversary as a timepiece and jewelry manufacturer, is one such company.
As a member of The Responsible Jewellery Council, Chopard will join forces with such notable jewelers as Bulgari, Cartier, De Beers, Zales, and Tiffany & Co. But these formidable players in the jewelry market are just a few of the over 200 companies, now including Chopard, that are part of the council.
Under the RJC System, which seeks to reinforce consumer and stakeholder confidence in jewelry products via members’ commitment to responsible ethical and environmental practices, all commercial members such as Chopard are required to undergo accredited, third-party auditing to verify their conformance to the RJC’s Code of Practices. The code, which Chopard will have to adhere to, covers responsible business ethics, human rights and social performance, environmental performance and management systems.
Given the recent and growing concern about the practices surrounding the jewelry industry, particularly the mining practices and treatment of workers at mining sites, joining The Responsible Jewellery Council may pose Chopard to be one of the jewelry companies that survives and thrives as the world economy pulls out of the recession. If this is the case, then Chopard may be at the beginning of the next 150 years of its life as a designer and manufacturer of watches, timepieces, jewelry, and high-end precious stone settings.
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