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The Responsible Jewellery Council (RJC) has taken a significant step forward in setting industry standards with the launch of its new Laboratory Grown Materials Standard (LGMS). This initiative reinforces the council’s commitment to ethical sourcing by providing clear guidelines for lab-grown diamonds and colored gemstones, ensuring responsible business practices across the supply chain.
Lab-grown diamonds and gemstones have established their place in the luxury jewelry market, offering a sustainable and innovative alternative to mined stones. Recognizing their growing importance, the RJC has introduced this new standard to complement its 2024 Code of Practices (COP), setting a clear framework for transparency and integrity in the sector. 
The LGMS applies to all RJC members engaged in the production, trade, and retail of lab-grown materials, covering diamonds, rubies, emeralds, and sapphires. Among the critical requirements introduced are:
- Legal compliance and intellectual property protections for laboratory growth and production technologies.
- Due diligence on input materials used in lab-grown gemstone production.
- Standardized nomenclature to ensure accurate and non-misleading product descriptions.
- Environmental impact regulations, including waste and emissions management.
- Mandatory disclosure of any non-permanent enhancements to lab-grown stones.
- Strict product transparency and claim verification to maintain consumer trust.
- By enforcing these guidelines, the RJC aims to enhance confidence in lab-grown materials while ensuring ethical and responsible business practices.
For the first year, compliance with the LGMS will be voluntary for existing RJC members, allowing time for adaptation. After this transition phase, adherence to the standard will become mandatory for all RJC members handling lab-grown gemstones. To facilitate a smooth integration, the council is providing training modules and streamlined auditing processes, ensuring consistency with its broader sustainability framework.
The introduction of the LGMS is a milestone in the jewelry industry’s ongoing evolution toward responsible luxury. With the growing demand for transparency and sustainability, this initiative positions the RJC as a leader in ethical standard-setting, ensuring that every piece—whether natural or lab-grown—is crafted with integrity and care for both people and the planet.
As the industry continues to innovate, the LGMS paves the way for a future where sustainability and luxury go hand in hand, reinforcing the trust of discerning consumers worldwide.
