At a recent meeting in Paris, world jewelry organization CIBJO endorsed industry efforts to eliminate conflict diamonds.

“CIBJO has adopted the World Diamond Council principles of trade, and we urge all member organizations to do the same thing,” says Matthew A. Runci, executive director of CIBJO. “This sends a clear message that the global diamond and jewelry industries are committed to eliminating conflict diamonds.”

Delegates also discussed security problems for salesmen in the industry worldwide as well as the new European Union precious metal and nickel directives.

The group’s Diamond Commission discussed harmonization of laboratory reports and requirements for disclosure of diamond treatments. The Pearl Commission officially recognized the term “Red Sea Cultured Pearl” to be used for new pearls being cultivated in the Sudan from the Pinctada margaritifera oyster.

CIBJO also welcomed five new members: Egypt, the United Arab Emirates, Lebanon, the Russian Federation, and Canada.

Runci, who last year assumed leadership of the group, says he’s quickened the pace of CIBJO’s notoriously slow deliberations.

“We have speeded it up, but it could use a little more stimulation,” Runci says. “I think you will see a lot of changes in the CIBJO.”

The group also admitted the Gemological Institute of America, International Gemmological Institute, and Platinum Guild International as associate members.

Delegates were treated to a gala dinner at the Eiffel Tower, hosted by the French delegation. Guests enjoyed the view from the second floor restaurant and listened to a brief speech by Anthony Oppenheimer of De Beers. Oppenheimer congratulated the delegates on their adoption of the conflict diamonds resolution and recognized CIBJO as the leading international organization addressing issues affecting the industry.