Competition Bureau Endorses Jewellery Industry Guidelines

OTTAWA, August 11, 2003 — The Competition Bureau today endorsed a set of guidelines that will help the Canadian jewellery industry provide consumers with consistent, accurate and meaningful product information.

The publication Canadian Guidelines with Respect to the Sale and Marketing of Diamonds, Coloured Gemstones and Pearls: Revised Edition 2003 is the result of a Jewellers Vigilance Canada special committee, which included industry members and a Competition Bureau representative. Changes to the guidelines, which were first developed in 1994, reflect recent amendments to the Competition Act as well as the need to ensure Canadian jewellery definitions remain consistent with international standards. The guidelines are also designed to help Canadian jewellers and retailers ensure their marketing practices comply with the Act.

The Competition Bureau is an independent law enforcement agency that ensures all Canadians enjoy the benefits of a competitive economy. The Bureau oversees the application of the Competition Act, the Consumer Packaging and Labelling Act, the Textile Labelling Act and the Precious Metals Marking Act.

For media enquiries, please contact:
Maureen McGrath
Senior Communications Advisor
Communications Branch
819-953-8982, or 613-296-2187 (cell)

For general enquiries, please contact:
Information Centre
Competition Bureau
1-800-348-5358