The World Jewellery Confederation (CIBJO) has recommended a new definition of recycled gold to bring greater clarity and consistency to the industry.
CIBJO announced the updated definition on Tuesday following discussions among jewelry- and watch-industry experts, stating that it would include it in the organization’s official guidance documents. The new criteria aim to improve the identification of recycled gold sources and enhance transparency in the supply chain.
The definition covers recycled materials recovered during manufacturing and fabrication processes before being sold to consumers, as well as gold recovered from materials after consumer use. CIBJO emphasized that the more stringent guildelines aim to prevent misleading claims about the origins of gold while simultaneously combatting “greenwashing.”
According to CIBJO’s new recommended terminology, pre-consumer recycled gold is defined as gold obtained by refining materials generated during a manufacturing or fabrication process. That includes melted scraps, sweeps, solutions, wastewater treatments, as well as manufactured materials, products, components and alloys that are no longer required, or that can no longer be used for their original purpose.
Meanwhile, postconsumer recycled gold is gold that comes from refining products sourced from individuals, organizations or industrial facilities in their role as end users of the products, which are no longer required or desired, or can no longer be used for their original purpose. That includes jewelry products and components, electronic and industrial components, dental scrap, monetary or collectible coins (but not investment coins), decorative products, plated materials and coatings, and spent solutions, as well as returns of products by participants in the gold supply chain.
“There has been growing confusion about the different names and labels for re-refined gold,” said CIBJO president Gaetano Cavalieri “The new definition provides a clear statement and set of criteria for recycled gold, which is more stringent than definitions for many other materials. The industry needs a clearer definition to avoid consumer confusion and greenwashing, and to enhance trading practices and supply chain transparency.”
Industry participants have recognized the new definition as positive progress, with organizations such as the London Bullion Market Association (LBMA) and the World Gold Council (WGC) considering its adoption in their responsible-sourcing guidelines. The Responsible Jewellery Council (RJC) has already incorporated a similar definition in its updated chain of custody standard, which now distinguishes between pre-consumer, postconsumer and waste. It also recognizes a mix of all three.
The move comes amid a broader industry shift toward greater transparency and accountability in gold sourcing. The RJC recently revised its standards to include human rights due diligence, supply chain accountability and environmental considerations. With these updates, CIBJO and other regulatory bodies seek to standardize recycled gold classification and ensure responsible practices throughout the industry.
Image: Gold nuggets. (Shutterstock)
