Ethical Guidelines
Orange River Pty Ltd is committed to responsible, ethical and transparent practices across the global gemstone, diamond and jewellery supply chain.
As a wholesale supplier of polished gemstones, diamonds and fine jewellery components, we recognise that these natural materials are formed over millions of years and that their extraction, cutting and trade carry significant environmental, social and human responsibilities.
Our sourcing philosophy prioritises:
- Lawful and transparent trade
- Accurate disclosure and product integrity
- Fair treatment of individuals involved in the supply chain
- Respect for the environments in which gemstones and diamonds are mined, cut and traded
These principles guide our supplier selection, sourcing decisions and long-term business relationships within the international jewellery trade.
How does Orange River Pty Ltd source gemstones and diamonds?
Orange River Pty Ltd sources polished gemstones and diamonds through established mining companies, recognised international dealers and professional cutting houses.
We work exclusively with suppliers who operate within applicable legal and trade frameworks and who can provide appropriate assurances regarding:
- Lawful origin
- Ethical trade practices
- Accurate disclosure
We do not knowingly source gemstones or diamonds connected to illegal activity, conflict, human rights abuses or unethical practices.
Are Orange River Pty Ltd’s diamonds conflict-free?
Yes. Orange River Pty Ltd sources diamonds from suppliers who provide assurances that their diamonds are conflict-free and traded in accordance with recognised international standards.
Our diamond sourcing aligns with the principles of the Kimberley Process Certification Scheme (KPCS), which was established to prevent diamonds associated with armed conflict from entering the legitimate supply chain.
We require suppliers to comply with Kimberley Process requirements and to provide appropriate documentation for diamonds where applicable.
What is the Kimberley Process and how does it apply?
The Kimberley Process is an international framework regulating the trade of rough diamonds to prevent conflict diamonds from entering the global market.
Orange River Pty Ltd:
- Trades diamonds sourced through suppliers who comply with Kimberley Process requirements
- Requires assurances that diamonds are conflict-free as defined by the Kimberley Process
- Expects lawful import, export and customs documentation
While Orange River Pty Ltd is not a certification authority, we rely on supplier compliance, declarations and documentation to maintain a conflict-free diamond supply chain.
How does Orange River Pty Ltd ensure product accuracy and integrity?
Accuracy, transparency and disclosure are fundamental to our wholesale operations.
Where appropriate and available, Orange River Pty Ltd utilises independent third-party gemstone and diamond laboratories to support product integrity and disclosure.
These may include:
- GIA – Gemological Institute of America
- GRS – GemResearch Swisslab
- Gübelin / Bellerophon
Third-party certification provides independent verification of gemstone identity, grading, treatments and, where applicable, origin.
Are all gemstones and diamonds supplied with certification?
Not all gemstones and diamonds are supplied with laboratory certification.
Certification availability depends on:
- Stone type
- Value
- Client requirements
- Intended commercial use
Where certification is not supplied, all gemstones and diamonds are assessed, graded and represented accurately in accordance with accepted professional trade standards.
Certification can often be arranged upon request.
Does Orange River Pty Ltd disclose gemstone treatments and enhancements?
Yes. Orange River Pty Ltd is committed to full and accurate disclosure.
We disclose:
- All known gemstone treatments or enhancements
- Synthetic or laboratory-grown origin where applicable
- Accurate grading, measurements and carat weights
We do not knowingly misrepresent gemstones, diamonds or jewellery supplied through our business.
How does Orange River Pty Ltd address labour and human rights concerns?
Orange River Pty Ltd does not tolerate forced labour, child labour or exploitative working conditions.
We expect our suppliers and partners to:
- Comply with applicable labour and employment laws
- Provide safe and lawful working environments
- Pay lawful wages
Where credible concerns are identified, we will investigate and take appropriate action, including discontinuing supplier relationships where necessary.
What is Orange River Pty Ltd’s approach to environmental responsibility?
While Orange River Pty Ltd is not a mining operator, we acknowledge that gemstone and diamond extraction can have environmental impacts.
Where possible, we:
- Work with suppliers who demonstrate responsible environmental practices
- Encourage transparency around mining, cutting and processing activities
- Consider environmental responsibility when assessing supplier relationships
Does Orange River Pty Ltd comply with trade and import regulations?
Yes. Orange River Pty Ltd complies with applicable international trade, customs and import regulations relevant to the gemstone, diamond and jewellery industry.
We work with suppliers and service providers who adhere to relevant legal and regulatory requirements, including export, import and customs documentation where applicable.
Our sourcing and supply processes are structured to align with recognised international trade standards, and we take compliance seriously to ensure lawful and transparent movement of goods across borders.
How does Orange River Pty Ltd conduct business ethically?
Orange River Pty Ltd conducts business with integrity, professionalism and fairness.
We do not engage in:
- Bribery or corruption
- Misrepresentation or deceptive practices
- Unethical inducements
We expect the same standards from our suppliers, partners and service providers.
How does Orange River Pty Ltd review and improve its ethical practices?
Ethical sourcing is an ongoing process.
Orange River Pty Ltd regularly reviews supplier relationships and sourcing practices and remains committed to improving transparency, accountability and ethical standards as industry expectations evolve.
Who can I contact with questions about ethical sourcing?
Trade clients and partners with questions regarding our ethical guidelines or sourcing practices are encouraged to contact Orange River Pty Ltd directly.
Open communication is essential to maintaining trust within the global jewellery and gemstone trade.