Jewelry sector has Global J-ID Label Scheme

16 Dec '09

2 min read

Shoppers and traders of jewelry products will have no problem tracing and verifying the product information, thanks to the world's first Global Jewelry Identity (Global J-ID) Management Label Scheme launched by the Hong Kong Jewelry Manufacturers' Association (HKJMA), with the technical support of the Hong Kong Productivity Council (HKPC).

Funded by the SME Development Fund of the Trade and Industry Department, the initiative features a unique Global J-ID technology that enables encrypted product data of jewelry to be translated into a 2D barcode. Measuring a mere 3mm x 1mm, each Global J-ID is laser-inscribed in the product, containing comprehensive data, such as producer code, materials and quality, as proof of authenticity.

Mr Sunny Chan, Chairman of HKJMA, said, “Hong Kong is the world's leading jewelry exporter with total value exceeding US$4 billion per year. Jewelry is among the top five export earners of Hong Kong. To increase consumer and industry confidence in Hong Kong jewelry products, HKJMA drew on the technical expertise of HKPC to develop the Global J-ID. With standardized codes on product description, Global J-ID will also facilitate the development of testing and certification services for the jewelry industry.”

Mr Clement Chen, Chairman of HKPC, said, “Global J-ID addresses the industry's need for solution in product traceability. With enhanced credibility, it will raise the image of Hong Kong jewelry products in the Mainland and internationally. Further ahead, we are looking into new initiatives to raise the service quality of retailers and assist the industry to tap opportunities in the Mainland domestic market.”

Overseeing the Scheme is the Global J-ID Management Board chaired by Mr Aaron Shum, Consultant of HKJMA. He said, “Setting a new standard in product value, Global J-ID will become a common language among industry players.”

On the consumer front, Ms Connie Lau, Chief Executive of the Consumer Council, said the Scheme can increase consumer confidence. She hopes that the frontline sales people will demonstrate how to retrieve the product data in the Global J-ID to the consumers.

Prior to the launch, three jewelers have participated in a pilot scheme. Jewelry products certified with the Global J-ID are now available at their outlets.

Launch was also attended by Mr Louis Lo, Chairman of The Gemmological Association of Hong Kong, Mr Lawrence Ma, President of Diamond Federation of Hong Kong, China, and Mr William Wong, Chief Executive of Luk Fook Group, which is one of the pilot companies.

Hong Kong Productivity Council (HKPC)