Sustainability Conference at JCK

Johanna Levy

GIA participated in two panels on sustainability during the June 2023 JCK Las Vegas show. President and CEO Susan Jacques started the first panel by sharing with the audience the United Nations Brundtland Commission’s definition of sustainability: “Meeting the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs.” A discussion covering GIA’s sustainability initiatives followed, highlighting the goal of building an inclusive and resilient future for people and the planet. These initiatives focus on social inclusion, environmental protection, and economic growth—all interconnected and crucial for the well-being of individuals and societies.

Sustainability has risen to the forefront of the gem and jewelry industry in the past ten years. A 2022 joint study by the Boston Consulting Group (BCG) and Comité Colbert estimated that 65% of consumers consider brands’ sustainability commitment when purchasing luxury products, and McKinsey & Company projected that sustainability-influenced fine jewelry sales will go from 5–10% in 2019 to 20–30% in 2025.

GIA uses scientific and research-based expertise to advance its crucial consumer-protection mission by driving transparency and bringing clarity to sustainability in the gem and jewelry value chain. In June 2023, GIA released its first sustainability report, developed in reference to the Global Reporting Initiative (GRI) framework and to the institute’s first sustainability strategy.

Looking ahead, GIA has outlined a sustainability strategy for the next two years. GIA’s 2025 sustainability strategy outlines the organization’s ambition for change, aiming to champion transparency by building resilience in the gem and jewelry sector through pioneering research and innovation, ultimately instilling greater confidence in GIA. The institute will drive change from the inside out by building an inclusive culture and reducing its climate impact. Drawing on a science-led approach, GIA plans to improve traceability through digital tools. Collectively, the institute will accelerate circularity, spearhead sustainability-related gemology research, and continue to raise awareness through responsible education programs. By working together to champion transparency and build all-important trust, GIA intends to spark real, sector-wide sustainable change.

The second panel gathered sustainability experts from across the industry: Sara Yood (Jewelers Vigilance Committee), Iris Van der Veken (Watch and Jewelry Initiative 2030), Josephine Silla-Afuwape (SCS Global Services), and consultant Christina Miller. The session began with various definitions of sustainability, followed by a discussion of how the industry collaborated on the Federal Trade Commission’s Green Guides. Panelists analyzed rising sustainability regulations in Europe and the U.S. and changing consumer behaviors. The presentation ended with key initiatives needed to start a sustainability journey.