The United States Jewelry Council (USJC), a group of US-based jewellery trade associations working to ensure that the US jewellery industry is collectively represented at government and international levels, has announced the addition of new members.
The four new USJC members are the American Gem Trade Association, Diamond Club West Coast, National Association of Jewelry Appraisers and Silver Promotion Service.
The newest members join the following associations, who formed the council in October 2015: American Gem Society; Diamond Bourse of Southeast United States; Diamond Council of America; Diamond Dealers Club of New York; Diamond Manufacturers & Importers Association of America; Indian Diamond and Colored Stone Association; Jewelers of America; Manufacturing Jewelers & Suppliers of America; Natural Color Diamond Association.
Now representing 13 associations, the council said its reach in the US jewellery industry continues to grow and now represents the vast majority of industry players, encompassing importers, manufacturers and retailers.
USJC was formed when individual associations realised they would have greater influence in dealing with challenges facing the industry. By combining their expertise, the council members work together to address key issues, such as those of social, ethical and environmental importance that might impact consumer confidence in the US jewellery sector.
The council is a member of the World Diamond Council (WDC) and works with the WDC to enhance the US jewellery industry’s voice in the Kimberley Process and looks to influence other global initiatives, such as the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development, which are tied closely to consumer confidence in the US market.