Jewelers of America has updated its Conflict Diamonds Self-Assessment Tools, a series of four one-page documents that provide guidance on steps retailers should be taking to fulfill their responsibilities to the World Diamond Council System of Warranties. The SoW supports the Kimberley Process Certification Scheme in ensuring that conflict diamonds do not reach the consumer market.

The documents are available to JA members at the association’s Web site, www.jewelers.org.

This year, JA has added a “Conflict Diamonds Key Messages for Media” sheet, which advises jewelers on the main points to emphasize if they receive calls from local media concerning the industry’s actions in response to the conflict diamonds issue. It includes:

* Summary for members. Updates members on the key points of KP and SoW, with particular emphasis on retailers’ responsibilities to the system.

* Self-assessment checklist. Helps retailers quickly assess their adherence to the WDC System of Warranties and functions to highlight areas where improvement is needed.

* Sample letter to suppliers. Gives members the language to communicate to suppliers about their obligation to provide retailers with the official SoW statement.

* Sample statement to consumers. Gives members sample language for a Conflict Diamonds Policy Statement to share with consumers who wish to know more about the industry’s voluntary warranty system supporting the Kimberley Process, including the official SoW statement.

The Conflict Diamonds Key Messages for Media sheet includes three simple, core messages, as well as a second page of Hot Button Issue questions and suggested answers.

JCK