Code of Conduct

CME is a family run company, founded in 1978. We aim to conduct our business in a manner which is honest and ethical. We have work with a large number of suppliers from the UK and across the globe, most of whom have supplied us for many years. We expect all of our Suppliers to adhere to the Responsible Business practice standards outlined below. We also expect that our Suppliers will communicate these requirements to all of their Suppliers.

1. Business Practices

Comply with all applicable laws and regulations relating to their activities in the countries in which they operate.
Engage in responsible business and not engage in, or condone corrupt practices, which would include fraud, bribery, tax evasion and money laundering.

2. Human and Labour Rights

Ensure the following:

No use of child labour under the age of 15 and no hazardous work for children under 18.
No forced, compulsory, trafficked or bonded labour (including the retention of identity or travel documents).
No discrimination based on race, caste, national origin, religion, age, disability, gender, marital status, sexual orientation, union membership or political affiliation.
No harsh or inhumane treatment of workers.
Ensure working conditions are safe and hygienic.
Employees are compensated with a living wage.
Working hours comply with national laws and collective agreements.
Overtime is voluntary
The rights of employees to freedom of association and collective bargaining are recognised and respected.

3. Environmental Protection

Comply with all environmental laws and regulations relating to their activities in the countries in which they operate.
Identify any environmental risks resulting from their activities and take steps to implement environmental protections, management systems and remediation procedures where needed (e.g. addressing water, waste and energy).

4. Sourcing

Diamond Suppliers

Adhere to the Kimberly Process Certification Scheme (KPCS) and the World Diamond Council system for warranties.
Purchase from legitimate sources, and ensure purchases are not funding conflict and are in compliance with UN Resolutions.
Confirm that all diamonds supplied have been sufficiently tested to be natural, not synthetic and untreated or free from enhancements unless otherwise stated.

Gold, Silver and Precious Gemstone Suppliers

Make best endeavours to ensure:

The material is purchased from legitimate sources.
The material is extracted from conflict-free regions.
The trade of the material is not funding conflict.
Recycled gold and silver is used wherever possible

Gold suppliers should apply the OECD Due Diligence Guidance for Responsible Supply Chains of Minerals from Conflict-Affected and High-Risk Areas Supplement on Gold.

Please note CME Leicester Limited does not ban the use gold and silver that originate in conflict-affected and high-risk areas when they are sourced in accordance with existing international standards. Avoiding the sourcing of all gold and silver from these areas would cause a de facto embargo with serious adverse impact on the living conditions of local populations.

5. Product Disclosure

That all products offered for sale to CME are offered with a complete and accurate disclosure of all relevant information about jewellery products, including the types of treatments used to alter the products appearance. The information must be disclosed for gold, silver, diamonds, treated diamonds, synthetic diamonds and diamond simulants; coloured gemstones and synthetic, imitation, treated, artificial, reconstructed or composite-coloured gemstones. The information must be disclosed for the composition of semi-precious stones and natural substances such as amber, turquoise, etc.

updated 10/08/22