Major UK jewelry chain Ernest Jones has introduced its Origin by Ernest Jones collection using the blockchain technology to give customers detailed information on the journey of the diamonds set in their jewelry.
The company says the move will enhance transparency in the diamond industry.
The jewelry in the collection enables customers to follow the path their diamonds have taken – from point of origin to the final jewelry product in store.
Blockchain technology will give customers a digital ID for each diamond, documenting each phase of the journey. This will include all transfers and border crossings.
Each rough diamond that is used in the collection is given its own ID number along with the stone’s individual characteristics. It is not just the diamonds that are identified, but also the other materials used, such as the precious metals and whether they were made using renewable energy.
All diamonds used in the collection are conflict-free and responsibly sourced, while 75% of the packaging materials are made from recycled materials. The company intends to eventually have 100% recycled materials in its packaging materials.
Ernest Jones is a long-time supporter of ethical sourcing. The chain is a member of the World Diamond Council and a founding and certified member of the Responsible Jewellery Council.
Philip Carter for Rough&Polished from London
