Responsible Jewellery Council certificate
What is Certificate of Responsible Jewellery Council certificate?
The Responsible Jewellery Council (RJC) Certificate is a globally recognized credential that demonstrates a company’s commitment to responsible, ethical, and sustainable practices across the entire jewelry and watch supply chain, from mining and sourcing to manufacturing and retail. It ensures that businesses operate with integrity, adhere to human rights and labor standards, maintain environmental responsibility, and implement sound management systems. Companies seeking RJC certification must undergo a rigorous process, including self-assessment and independent auditing by an accredited firm, to verify compliance with the RJC’s Code of Practices. Holding this certificate not only enhances a company’s reputation and builds trust with customers, investors, and stakeholders, but also signals adherence to international standards of ethical and sustainable business conduct in the jewelry industry.
Benefits of a Certificate of The Responsible Jewellery Councilcertificate
Enhanced Reputation
Demonstrates a commitment to ethical, sustainable, and responsible business practices, building trust with customers, partners, and stakeholders.
Global Recognition
Provides international credibility, showing compliance with globally accepted standards for responsible sourcing and operations.
Supply Chain Transparency
Ensures accountability and transparency across the entire supply chain, from mining to retail.
Regulatory Compliance
Helps businesses meet national and international regulations and industry requirements.
Risk Management
Reduces operational, legal, and reputational risks by promoting ethical practices and proper governance.
Market Advantage
Differentiates certified companies from competitors, attracting ethically conscious consumers and investors.
Supports National Development Goals
By enforcing quality standards, the CoC program helps improve the overall quality of goods available in the country, benefiting public health and safety.
Simplified Procedures
Less paperwork and easier compliance compared to conventional certification systems.
Community Participation
Farmers form groups and support each other, leading to knowledge-sharing and stronger community bonds.
Who can apply for The Responsible Jewellery Council certificate?
Mining companies (gold, diamonds, and other precious metals/gemstones)
Jewelry and watch manufacturers and refiners
Wholesalers and distributors of jewelry and watches
Retailers (both physical stores and online platforms)
Service providers supporting the jewelry industry (e.g., recycling, supply chain management)
All commercial RJC members must obtain certification within two years of joining
Logistics Providers Handling Electronic Waste
Organizations Handling Export/Import of Used Electronics
Freight forwarders (on behalf of exporters)
Customs agents (on behalf of exporters)
Importers in Algeria (in special cases)
CSR Initiatives
Documents Required for Responsible Jewellery Council certificate
- System Manual
- System Procedure
- Policy
- Objectives
- Mission & Vision
- Standard Operating Procedure (SOP)
- Checklist
- Forms
- Formats
- Records
The extent of Documented Information differs as per:
- Organization’s size
- Activities performed by the organization
- Processes undertaken by the Organization
- Products and services offered by the organization
- The complexity of processes undertaken
- Competence of persons involved
Role of Shamkris and Process of Responsible Jewellery Council certificationcertificate
Shamkris adopts a results-oriented approach to effective system implementation in the organization. A simple and practical method of system implementation helps organizations increase business efficiency and sustainability. Shamkris supports 100% documentation to obtain an accreditation body of success in addition to enhanced performance.
The implementation process is described below:
Time Frame
Task
Process
Day 1
GAP Analysis
Certification Body
Selection
Cost Estimates
- Finding the GAP between existing system related to Responsible Jewellery Council certification requirements
- Selecting the appropriate certification Body
- Based on the scope of your business & certification Body you choose
Week 1
Developing Documents
- Management System Manual, Management System Procedures, Policy, Objectives, Forms etc.
- Review of Standard Operating Procedures (SOP)
Week 4
Implementing Management System
- Responsible Jewellery Council certification Awareness training for the top management and staff
- Implementing a well-documented management system throughout the organization
Week 8
Internal Audit
MRM
CAPA
- Internal audits identifying nonconformities related to Responsible Jewellery Council certification requirements
- Management Review Meetings
- Corrective and Preventive Action plan for nonconformities
Week 10
Self Certification/NoBo
Audit
N-C Closing
- Shamkris acts on your behalf and assists you in the third-party audit
- Closing of any nonconformities identified by the certification Body
Week 12
Self Certification/NoBo
- Certificates issued under have a validity period as
- Initial Certification: Valid for 3 years .
- Surveillance Audits yearly
Year on Year
Yearly Compliance
- Support of Yearly documentation for audit
Who can issue the Certificate of The Responsible Jewellery Council certification
FAQ
The RJC Certificate is a globally recognized credential that demonstrates a company’s commitment to ethical, responsible, and sustainable practices across the entire jewelry and watch supply chain.
Any company operating in the jewelry or watch supply chain, including mining companies, manufacturers, wholesalers, retailers, and related service providers, can apply.
Yes. All commercial RJC members are required to achieve certification within two years of joining.
The certificate is based on the Code of Practices (COP), covering supply chain management, business ethics, labor and human rights, health and safety, environmental performance, and management systems.
- Self-Assessment: Companies evaluate their practices against RJC standards.
- Audit: An RJC-accredited auditor verifies compliance.
- Reporting: Audit results are submitted to RJC.
- Issuance: Upon approval, RJC issues the certificate.
- Enhances reputation and builds trust
- Provides global recognition
- Ensures supply chain transparency
- Supports regulatory compliance
- Reduces operational and reputational risks
- Differentiates the company in the market
- Promotes sustainable and ethical practices
The certificate is usually valid for a specific period, after which a renewal audit is required to maintain certification.