An updated version of  the ALROSA Alliance Guidelines on Responsible Business Practices was recently introduced by the Company.

The new version was “developed to enhance confidence between the Company and its clients – ALROSA Alliance members – as part of development of corporate work standards and compliance with the best practices in the diamond industry,” the Company said.

The essential nature of the guidelines – the voluntary implementation of the Principles – has been left intact, even as ALROSA spelt out what is desirable and expected through “amendments and updates” to the text of the document.  

“In particular, the new version of the Guidelines takes account of the Responsible Jewellery Council (RJC) Code of Practices,” ALROSA elaborated. “The guidelines for the prevention and minimising of adverse environmental impact and environmental risk management have been expanded following the recommendations of the RJC.”

Other new aspects relate to stating the origin of rough diamonds acquired from ALROSA, “possibly accentuating their Russian, natural and non-conflict origin”; and also to state that they are produced “in full compliance with responsible business practices”.

Further, the new version refers to the current Russian and international industry terminology and recommends that it be used. These are definitions and classifications of rough and  polished diamonds as enshrined in the International Standard ISO 18323: 2015 Jewellery; the CIBJO Diamond Book and the Diamond Terminology Guideline developed with the support from nine leading international industry organisations, including the Diamond Producers Association (DPA).

“As a company selling the bulk of rough diamonds under long-term agreements, ALROSA is interested in building the trust with its clients,” said ALROSA CEO Sergey Ivanov. “The Guidelines are aimed at enhancing confidence and are based on the experience of implementing the best world business practices. The inclusion of clients in ALROSA Alliance means that they are reliable and trusted participants in the global diamond market.”

The Company stressed that the ALROSA Alliance Guidelines on Responsible Business Practices form an integral part of the Agreement on the Use of ALROSA Alliance Trademarks, and “the right to conclude such an agreement is granted to long-term buyers of rough diamonds to identify them as reliable customers”.