JVC Publishes Guide to U.S. Gold and Silver Jewelry Trade

The Jewelers Vigilance Committee (JVC) has released “The Essential Guide to the U.S. Trade in Gold and Silver Jewelry,” developed to provide a clear explanation of the legal standards that govern the manufacture, sale and advertising of gold and silver industry products.

Jewelers using new technologies to create new combinations and alloys of gold, silver and gold and other gold plated products must follow existing legal standards, according to JVC. “Adhering to these standards can ensure legal compliance and consumer confidence,” it said in a release Monday.

The guide includes JVC’s interpretation to the National Gold and Silver Stamping Act, the Federal Trade Commission Guides for Jewelry, Precious Metal and Pewter and Voluntary Product Standard (VPS) PS 68-76.

Other topics include information that jewelry manufacturers must be familiar with and follow, including when and how to stamp gold and silver and the Gold Stamping Law chart, including plating thickness.

“Manufacturers that produce jewelry 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,” said Cecilia L. Gardner, JVC’s president, CEO and general counsel.

“Jewelry companies that refer to JVC’s new publication for guidance can help to ensure legal compliance and bolster consumer confidence,” she added.

JVC members will receive a copy of the new precious metals publication with their 2009 membership renewal packets.

The Essential Guide to the U.S. Trade in Gold and Silver Jewelry can also be found on JVC’s web site - www.jvclegal.org.