IWC Schaffhausen has just become the first luxury watch brand that meets the new 2019 Code of Practices (COP) standard set by the Responsible Jewellery Council (RJC). The Swiss manufacturer reaffirmed its commitment to the responsible sourcing of precious materials.
Since it was founded in 2005, the RJC has provided a clear COP for members within the watch and jewellery sector. From mining to retail, the aim is to ensure ethical, social and environmental responsibility. IWC first joined the leading global standards organisation in 2012, gaining the 2013 COP certification in both 2014 and 2017.
Last year, the RJC unveiled a revised version of their COP standard; it included stronger provisions for responsible business practices, activities and supply chain management. IWC asked to be recertified to the new 2019 COP standard. The company was judged to be compliant with all applicable laws and regulations.
What is Responsible Jewellery Council?
The Responsible Jewellery Council is an international non-profit standards and certification organisation. It has more than 1,200 member companies that span the jewellery supply chain from mine to retail. RJC Members are independently audited against the RJC Code of Practices – an international standard on responsible business practices for diamonds, coloured gemstones, gold, silver and other precious metals. Its COP addresses human rights, labour rights, environmental impact, mining practices, product disclosure and more topics in the supply chain.