Press Releases

Korite Joins Responsible Jewellery Council

Published

6 years ago

January 12, 2018

INSTORE Staff

(PRESS RELEASE) Korite, producer of gem-grade ammolite, announces its membership with the Responsible Jewellery Council.

The not-for-profit RJC sets international responsible business practices standards for the diamond, gold and platinum group metals jewelry supply chain from mine to retail. Members of RJC are required to follow the organization’s Code of Practices that address human rights, labor rights, environmental impact, mining practices, product disclosure and other key topics in the jewelry supply chain.

As part of Korite’s commitment to RJC and to become a certified member, the company has started the certification process, which involves an independent third-party audit by accredited RJC auditors. To be certified, Korite will demonstrate that its company operations, business practices, and jewelry manufacturing facilities comply with the RJC’s Code of Practices.

“We are excited to announce our membership with the Responsible Jewellery Council, to underscore our social responsibility commitments and lead the way as the world’s largest, most trusted source for ammolite,” says Jay Maull, president of Korite. “For more than 30 years, KORITE has demonstrated ethical and environmental stewardship, and this membership is the next step to ensure our company operations uphold the highest standards.

“Our business is based on fair, ethical and transparent practices, ensuring our products are sustainably and responsibly sourced. Achieving RJC certification will demonstrate KORITE’s continued efforts to lead the ammolite industry, providing a conflict-free product while improving and fostering responsible business practices.”

When There’s No Succession Plan, Call Wilkerson

Bob Wesley, owner of Robert C. Wesley Jewelers in Scottsdale, Ariz., was a third-generation jeweler. When it was time to enjoy life on the other side of the counter, he weighed his options. His lease was nearing renewal time and with no succession plan, he decided it was time to call Wilkerson. There was plenty of inventory to sell and at first, says Wesley, he thought he might try to manage a sale himself. But he’s glad he didn’t. “There’s no way I could have done this as well as Wilkerson,” he says. Wilkerson took responsibility for the entire event, with every detail — from advertising to accounting — done, dusted and managed by the Wilkerson team. “It’s the complete package,” he says of the Wilkerson method of helping jewelers to easily go on to the next phase of their lives. “There’s no way any retailer can duplicate what they’ve done.”