The World Jewellery Confederation, (CIBJO) has drawn the attention of Gem and jewellery industry to the epidemic of Silicosis in China. The gem and jewelry manufacturers based in Guangdong, China, are to investigate the silicosis epidemic and ensure that those stricken receive prompt medical treatment and compensation.
The appeal was made by CIBJO president Gaetano Cavalier following the publication of "Deadly Dust," a report about the silicosis epidemic in the Guangdong jewelry worker community and the defects of Chinas occupational illness prevention and compensation system.

Cavalier published his statement shortly after his return from Hong Kong, where he attended the meetings of the World Trade Organization (WTO.) "Judging by the evidence that these NGO representatives presented, I felt that it is imperative that our organization takes a crystal clear position in this matter," Cavalier said. The CIBJO president met the CBL representatives in a joint meeting with Cecilia Bright, a high-ranking official of the Union Cist, the Italian Labor Union.

�Addressing issues of this nature lies at the core of CIBJO�s purpose, and once again demonstrates our organization�s commitment to involve itself in each and every issue that affects consumer confidence in jewellery products,� Cavalieri concluded as he pointed out that CIBJO is committed to ensuring that the production of jewelry does not cause any safety or health hazards to the workers, nor to any other people involved in the jewelry production process.