Introduction: The Power of Member-Led Governance
The Responsible Jewellery Council (RJC) stands as the world’s leading standard-setting organization for the jewellery and watch industry. At the heart of its mission to advance responsible business practices lies a commitment to transparency, ethical sourcing, and rigorous governance. Central to maintaining this mandate is the Annual General Meeting (AGM) and the subsequent board elections—a pivotal period where members are invited to shape the strategic trajectory of the organization.
As the industry faces evolving challenges—from supply chain traceability to the integration of new material categories like laboratory-grown stones—the composition of the Board of Directors becomes increasingly vital. This year, the RJC has initiated a structured, secure, and highly transparent electoral process designed to ensure that every member forum is represented by leaders who bring both individual expertise and a deep commitment to the council’s core values.
The Significance of the AGM Process
Board elections are more than just a procedural formality; they are the bedrock of the RJC’s democratic framework. By participating in these elections, member companies directly influence the leadership that guides the council’s policies, advocacy efforts, and standard-setting initiatives.
The AGM serves as the definitive culmination of this process. It is the forum where the membership officially welcomes the newly elected leadership team. This process is engineered to ensure balanced representation across the entire jewellery supply chain—from mining and refining to manufacturing and retail. By electing Directors in their personal capacity, rather than as corporate proxies, the RJC ensures that the Board remains a body of individuals dedicated to the collective good of the industry, rather than the specific interests of individual firms.
Chronology: A Roadmap to the 2026 Elections
The 2026 election cycle is governed by a strict timeline designed to provide all eligible members with ample opportunity to participate. Understanding these milestones is critical for ensuring that every vote is counted and every nomination is considered.
Step 1: The Nominations Phase (March 2, 2026 – April 10, 2026)
The process officially commences on March 2, 2026, at 09:00 UK time. During this window, member companies and associations are invited to submit nominations for board vacancies.
The RJC has streamlined the process through the LUMI portal—a secure, specialized platform used to manage candidate submissions. Each member is permitted to submit one nomination for their respective Member Forum, in addition to nominations for the available officer positions. Accuracy is paramount during this phase; all communications regarding access to the LUMI platform are channeled exclusively through the designated AGM contact within each member organization.
Step 2: The Voting Phase (April 14, 2026 – May 22, 2026)
Following the vetting and confirmation of nominees, the voting phase opens on April 14, 2026, at 09:00 UK time. Only members in "good standing"—those who are fully compliant with certification requirements, have settled all dues, and are free of critical breaches—are eligible to cast a ballot.
This phase is a test of organizational engagement. By the time voting closes on May 22, 2026, at 18:00 UK time, members will have had the opportunity to select the candidates they believe are best equipped to represent their specific sector of the industry.
Step 3: The Annual General Meeting (May 27, 2026)
The cycle concludes with the Annual General Meeting on May 27, 2026, at 13:00 UK time. This digital assembly serves as the venue for the formal announcement of the new board members. Members will access the meeting via their unique LUMI credentials, ensuring that the final announcement is delivered directly to those who have participated in the democratic process.
Understanding the Vacancies: Officers and Member Forums
The structure of the RJC Board is designed to be inclusive, ensuring that diverse segments of the industry have a seat at the table. Each year, the longest-serving Director from each forum steps down, creating a rotating vacancy system that encourages fresh perspectives.
The 2026 Board Officer Positions
This year, the RJC is seeking to fill three critical officer roles that provide the backbone of the organization’s executive oversight:
- Vice-Chair: A leadership role tasked with supporting the Chair and ensuring continuity in governance.
- Honorary Secretary: Responsible for overseeing the integrity of board communications and administrative governance.
- Honorary Treasurer: Charged with the fiduciary oversight of the council’s financial health.
Member Forum Representation
The Board structure is meticulously segmented to ensure that no single part of the supply chain dominates the conversation. The 2026 election cycle includes vacancies across the following categories:
- Mining: 2 positions (Diamond, Gold, and/or PGM).
- Laboratory-Grown Materials: 3 positions (reflecting the sector’s rapid growth).
- Diamond Trade/Processing: 2 positions (Diamond trader and/or cutter/polisher).
- Precious Metals Trade/Refining: 1 position.
- Jewellery Manufacturing/Wholesale: 1 position.
- Retail: 1 position.
- Service Industries: 1 position.
- Trade Associations: 1 position.
Navigating the Process: Communication and Technical Support
The RJC has prioritized technical security and clear communication for the 2026 cycle. By partnering with LUMI, the council ensures that the election process is shielded from tampering and that the voting experience is seamless for all users.
The Role of the Designated AGM Contact
Every member company is required to have a designated AGM contact. This individual is the sole point of contact for election-related information, including login credentials for the portal. It is imperative that members verify their designated contact via the RJC Member Portal. If a change in personnel has occurred, the membership team must be notified immediately to ensure that credentials reach the correct recipient.
Troubleshooting and Compliance
Questions regarding eligibility, the nomination portal, or the voting interface should be directed to [email protected]. For general inquiries regarding membership status or updating contact information, the RJC membership team remains the primary resource at [email protected].
Implications for the Industry
The 2026 elections arrive at a time of significant transition for the global jewellery market. As sustainability reporting requirements tighten globally, the leadership elected in May will be responsible for navigating these regulatory shifts while maintaining the credibility of the RJC certification.
Why Participation Matters
When members fail to vote, they cede their influence to others. A high turnout in the 2026 election sends a clear message to the broader market: the industry is unified in its commitment to ethical standards. Furthermore, the election of qualified, diverse, and dedicated Directors ensures that the RJC can effectively advocate for the interests of its members before international regulatory bodies.
Upholding Transparent Governance
The commitment to electing Directors in their personal capacity is a strategic choice. It forces a separation between corporate lobbying and board-level decision-making. By selecting individuals based on their professional track record and commitment to responsible practices, the RJC shields its board from the perception of conflicts of interest, thereby enhancing the trust that consumers place in the "RJC Certified" label.
Summary of Key Dates (2026)
| Event | Date | Time (UK) |
|---|---|---|
| Nominations Open | March 2, 2026 | 09:00 |
| Nominations Close | April 10, 2026 | 18:00 |
| Voting Opens | April 14, 2026 | 09:00 |
| Voting Closes | May 22, 2026 | 18:00 |
| Annual General Meeting | May 27, 2026 | 13:00 |
Final Word: Engaging with the Future
The strength of the Responsible Jewellery Council is derived entirely from the participation of its members. The 2026 election cycle is an opportunity to revitalize the board, introduce new voices, and reinforce the pillars of transparency and ethical conduct that define the industry.
As we move toward the May 27th AGM, all members are encouraged to review their internal procedures, identify potential candidates who embody the spirit of the RJC, and ensure their designated contact is prepared to execute their vote. Through active engagement, the membership ensures that the RJC remains a robust, credible, and forward-thinking organization capable of meeting the challenges of the next decade.
The call to action is clear: keep an eye on your inbox for communications from the LUMI portal, familiarize yourself with the candidates, and exercise your right to vote. The leadership you choose today will be the foundation upon which the industry’s reputation is built tomorrow.
