The Jewelers Vigilance Committee (JVC) has launched a new publication - “Quick Reference Guide”, which supplements JVC’s “Essential Guide to the U.S. Trade in Advertising Gold and Silver Jewelry” (“The Essential Guide”) and is intended for manufacturers and sellers of jewellery made in combinations of gold and silver.

Contents of the new publication include examples of advertising, proper stamping, exemptions and a glossary defining and identifying products that comply with this standard- all of which are presented in a quick reference format to address accurate advertising and stamping of jewellery where the gold is either partially covered with karat gold (visually distinguishable), or where the gold fully covers the base (visually indistinguishable).

The high price of gold has influenced the industry in creating new technologies that produce new combinations and alloys of gold, silver and gold and other gold plated products. Cecilia L. Gardner, JVC’s president, CEO and general counsel said, “Manufacturers that produce jewellery products using new technologies and the retailers that sell them, must mark, label and present the products according to the laws that govern our industry. JVC developed the “Quick Reference Guide” in response to the many questions we receive from jewellers specifically on how to mark and market new combinations of sterling silver in various combinations with karat gold. The rising price of gold has caused many manufacturers to create new technologies to produce fine jewelry that is predominately sterling silver but looks and wears like gold.” Adhering to required standards ensures a fair marketplace and increases consumer confidence.

Contents of both the publications include JVC’s interpretation of governing standards including - The National Gold and Silver Stamping Act; -The Federal Trade Commission Guides for Jewelry, Precious Metal and Pewter; - Voluntary Product Standard (VPS) PS 68-76, represents the marking requirements for articles made of silver in combination with gold and to provide the industry with a basis for common understanding of the characteristics of this product. “JVC is very grateful to The Richline Group for their generous grants to publish these important Guides,” added Gardner.