The Guyana National Bureau of Standards (GNBS) continues to play a critical role in promoting standardization in the manufacturing of gold articles. In this regard, the Bureau developed a standard to regularize manufacture and labelling of this precious commodity.
The GNBS also operates a Product Certification Scheme under which manufacturers including Goldsmiths and Jewelers can benefit by choosing to implement the standard in their businesses, providing they have access to testing facilities and are keeping the necessary records.
The standard Specification for Gold Articles GYS 50:2010 which is a Caricom Standard, stipulates marking requirements. The standard requires that all gold jewellery be marked or labelled with the manufacturer’s identification mark and the assayed purity, either in karats or parts per thousand.
Conforming to the requirements of the Gold standard prevents fraud and deception arising from misleading labels. It also gives guidance to manufacturers and helps them provide adequate
labelling information, which guides consumers during the purchase of gold articles.
Goldsmiths should manufacture standard compliant gold articles
In addition, it provides information to Goldsmiths and Jewelers on the manufacturing process for gold articles, using the short cut fire assay method, and serves as a guideline for good manufacturing practices.
With respect to the testing of gold jewellery by a recognized test method, the standard clearly outlines the procedure for the modified fire assay or cupellation method of testing. Prior to any marking or labelling of purity on these articles, either of these stipulated methods should be used.
Thus, complying with this Caricom standard would provide customer confidence in the quality of jewellery manufactured, and create greater business opportunities within the Caricom market for local businesses.
The GNBS encourages Goldsmiths and Jewelers to participate in its Product Certification Scheme. By far, the benefits outweigh the cost of being a part of the Scheme. When consumers see the standards mark on your gold articles they will be assured that they are getting their money’s worth.
