New York-based jewellery brand Verragio achieved Certified Member status with the Responsible Jewellery Council (RJC), recognizing its commitment to responsible and ethical business practices within the global jewellery industry. The certification followed a thorough third-party audit that evaluated Verragio’s operations against RJC’s Code of Practices, which outlines environmental, social, and governance (ESG) standards. These include criteria related to human rights, anti-corruption measures, responsible sourcing, and labor practices.

Verragio, which became a member of the RJC in September 2024, spent several months aligning its internal processes to meet the organization’s requirements. Certification from the RJC does not apply to specific products but to a company’s overall business conduct. While RJC membership is voluntary, members are required to obtain certification within a set timeframe.

The RJC is an international organization that promotes transparency and accountability across the jewellery and watch supply chain. With more than 2,000 members in 74 countries, the organization sets industry standards on issues such as environmental responsibility, ethical sourcing, and worker rights. Its Code of Practices and Chain-of-Custody Certification are designed to support responsible sourcing from mine to retail.

Founded over two decades ago, Verragio is known for its handcrafted bridal jewelry and fine collections, which blend traditional craftsmanship with contemporary design. The company’s founder, Barry Verragio, trained at the Fashion Institute of Technology and has spent nearly 30 years in jewelry design.

As sustainability and ethical sourcing become increasingly important to both consumers and industry stakeholders, initiatives like RJC certification play a central role in shaping the future of the global jewellery sector. Through participation in RJC programs, certified companies contribute to broader efforts aligned with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, supporting transparency and trust across the industry.