On April 6, 2012, the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) officially announced that it will be initiating a review, and seeking public comment on, the Guides for the Jewelry, Precious Metals, and Pewter Industries. This effort is part of the agency's systematic review of all FTC rules and guides. The announcement can be viewed on http://ftc.gov/opa/2012/04/regreview.shtm

The FTC review will consider the following questions: - What is the economic impact of the rule or guide?

-Is there a continuing need for the rule or guide?

-Are there possible conflicts between the rule or guide and state, local, or other federal laws or regulations?

-Has the rule or guide been affected by any technological, economic, or other industry changes?

The next step in the process will be FTC’s request for public comments on the Guides, and comments that specifically address questions that will be posed by the Commission. The announcement is expected to also include a timetable for responses.