The Council for Responsible Jewellery Practices released the initial draft of its “Code of Practices” for stakeholder review. The draft articulates the business ethics, social, and environmental practices that the council will expect of its members once its “Responsible Practices” framework is fully operational.

CRJP said in a statement that stakeholders can log on to www.responsiblejewellery.com to comment on the Draft Code of Practices document, or contact info@responsiblejewellery.com for more information and a copy of the draft.

Council representatives plan to hold a series of meetings and have developed an online survey in order to reach a variety of stakeholders from all levels of the industry supply chain, as well as governments, non-governmental organizations, host communities, and other thought leaders. The consultation period for the Draft Code of Practices will run until July 3.

London-based CRJP promotes responsible ethical, social and environmental practices throughout the diamond and gold jewelry supply chain. It welcomed 13 new members who have joined since November, 2005. They are:

* AMC Diamonds
* AngloGold Ashanti
* Argor-Heraeus AS
* British Jewellers Association
* Dalumi Diamonds
* I. Hennig & Co. Ltd.
* Leo Schachter Diamonds LLC
* National Mining Association
* Overseas Diamonds NV/Isee2
* PX Precinox SA
* Roberto Coin
* Rothschild Diamonds Ltd.
* World Gold Council

The new members join 20 existing members to bring the total number of companies and organization in CRJP to 33.

JCK