The Responsible Jewellery Council (RJC) has announced the launch of its new Lab-Grown Materials Standard (LGMS). It sets out clear guidelines for lab-grown diamonds and coloured gemstones.
Lab-grown diamonds and other gemstones, including rubies, emeralds and sapphires, have been part of the jewellery sector for many years. As their market presence grows, the RJC recognised the need for a dedicated framework that ensures integrity and sustainability across the supply chain. The LGMS applies to all RJC members handling lab-grown materials and introduces strict requirements for legal compliance, intellectual property, waste management and product transparency.
For the first year, compliance with the LGMS will be voluntary for existing RJC members. Thereafter, it will be mandatory for all members handling lab-grown materials. To ensure a smooth transition, the RJC will offer training modules and streamlined audit processes for businesses working with both lab-grown and natural stones.
Regulated by the gemstone, gold and platinum industries, the Responsible Jewellery Council is a non-profit organization established in 2005. The RJC promotes responsible practices throughout the global supply chain to build trust in the precious metals jewellery and watch industry worldwide.
In addition, the Council’s standard defines responsible practices in ethical, human rights, social and environmental matters applicable to all RJC participants in the diamond, gold and platinum jewellery supply chain.
Hélène Tarin, Editor-in-Chief of the Asian Bureau, Rough&Polished
