Chicago— The highly anticipated annual Chicago Responsible Jewelry Conference (CRJC) is poised to make a significant return in 2024. Scheduled for August 9 and 10, the event will take place at the esteemed Donald E. Stephens Convention Center in Rosemont, Illinois, mirroring its successful collaboration with the 2024 Instore show, a partnership initiated in 2023.
This strategic co-location of the two influential shows has proven instrumental in amplifying industry awareness, as affirmed by CRJC. The joint effort has not only facilitated an extended reach for its mission of establishing responsible supply chains for jewelry materials and production but has also served as a catalyst for enhanced communication, offering fresh educational avenues and networking opportunities within the industry.
Founded in 2016 by Susan Wheeler as part of her nonprofit, the Responsible Jewelry Transformative, CRJC was established to confront the ethical and environmental challenges historically associated with the jewelry sector. The initiative seeks to formulate actionable plans for a more equitable and sustainable industry. Over the years, CRJC has garnered support from governmental bodies, non-governmental organizations (NGOs), and various segments of the jewelry industry.
CRJC operates on two core principles. The first is to “create dialog among all participants in the supply chain, and to tell the truth, even unpleasant truths, to one another.” The second principle emphasizes the initiation of tangible actions among jewelry stakeholders. Conference organizers stress that addressing problems verbally is insufficient; the industry must take proactive measures to resolve them. Notably, the Chicago Responsible Jewelry Conference has spurred the launch of over a dozen global initiatives, showcasing the tangible impact of collective learning and collaboration.
In its eight-year history, CRJC has witnessed a surge in consumer demand for responsible jewelry, prompting corresponding growth within the industry to meet these evolving needs. Post-conference, on Sunday, August 11, attendees will have the unique opportunity to engage with responsible distributors of colored gemstones and diamonds at the Responsible Gem Boutique, further reinforcing the event’s commitment to fostering ethical practices throughout the jewelry supply chain.
