27th May 2026, London, UK: The Responsible Jewellery Council (RJC) has announced the appointment of new Officer and Board representatives following member voting at the organisation’s 2026 Annual General Meeting (AGM).
“The Annual General Meeting is an important moment for member participation and governance within RJC, providing our community with the opportunity to shape the organisation’s future direction with purpose. We are pleased to welcome our newly elected representatives and look forward to working with them as we continue advancing responsible business practices, collaboration and positive impact across the jewellery and watch industry.” Purvi Shah, Executive Director of the Responsible Jewellery Council.
The appointments follow the conclusion of a 12-week independent election process, during which all RJC members were invited to participate in nominating and voting for open Officer and Board positions across the organisation’s member forums.
New Appointments 2026:
Officers:
Vice-Chair: Edward Asscher, Royal Asscher Diamond Company
Honorary Secretary: Udi Sheintal, World Diamond Council
Honorary Treasurer: Arnav Akshay Mehta, M/s. Blue Star Diamonds Pvt. Ltd
Board:
Diamonds, Coloured Gemstones or Precious Metals Miner: Emma Wade-Smith, De Beers Group
Diamonds and Coloured Gemstones Trader, Cutter and/or Polisher: Victoria Wirth Reynolds, Tiffany & Co.
Diamonds and Coloured Gemstones Trader, Cutter and/or Polisher: Ravi Bhansali, Rosy Blue NV
Precious Metals Trader, Refiner and/or Hedger: Dr. Robin Kolvenbach, Argor-Heraeus SA
Jewellery and Watch Manufacturer and/or Wholesaler: Arien Gessner, Richline Group
Jewellery and Watch Retailer: Anouchka Didier-Mansour, Cartier
Service Industry: Kareena Shahani, International Gemological Institute (India) Pvt Ltd.
Trade Association: Bernadette Pinet Cuoq, Union française de la Bijouterie, Joaillerie, Orfèvrerie, des Pierres et des Perles (UFBJOP)
“Strong governance and member engagement remain central to RJC’s work and long-term ambition. These appointments reflect the voice of our membership and bring valuable expertise and perspectives to the RJC as we continue supporting the responsible growth and evolution of our industry.” Dave Meleski, Chair of the Responsible Jewellery Council.
The newly appointed representatives will join the Board in supporting the strategic direction, governance oversight and continued development of RJC as the organisation advances responsible business practices across the global jewellery and watch supply chain.
The RJC would also like to recognise and thank the outgoing Board representatives for their contribution, leadership and service to the organisation during their respective terms.
“On behalf of the organisation and our membership, I would like to express our sincere thanks to our outgoing representatives for their dedication, insight and contribution during their terms of service. Their leadership has helped strengthen RJC’s work and support our continued evolution as a global standards organisation.” Dave Meleski, Chair of the Responsible Jewellery Council.
The RJC looks forward to building on this foundation as the newly appointed representatives begin their terms and continue supporting the organisation’s mission and future priorities.