Corporate Responsibility
Ben Bridge was established in 1912 with a commitment to you and fine jewelry. Each year we contribute over $600,000 to non-profit ventures in and around the communities that we do business because we care about people and the communities in which we live and work. We also care deeply about the merchandise we carry and the reputable practices of the industry in which we do business.
We Stand With The People of Ukraine
Ben Bridge Jeweler is devastated by recent events in Ukraine and the humanitarian crisis affecting their citizens. We believe that the beautiful things we sell must create good in the world and we are steadfast in upholding our commitment to the highest ethical and quality standards in the industry.
In accordance with the Executive Order from President Biden, we are ensuring compliance from all of our partners to avoid sourcing diamonds from Russia or any Russia mining companies for our merchandise. We are taking every measure to guarantee our supply chain integrity.
Ben Bridge fervently stands with the people of Ukraine and we hope for a peaceful resolution as soon as possible. As your personal jeweler for 110 years, we will continue to offer you the best possible experience and be your trusted partner for celebrating all the moments in your lives.
What is a conflict diamond?
Conflict Diamonds are un-cut or rough diamonds that have been used by rebel movements or their allies to finance “conflict” aimed at undermining legitimate governments. The proportion of conflict diamond has always been very small and has been shrinking dramatically in recent years because of a variety of factors ---including cease-fires in the Sierra Leone and Angola regions as well as reforms and new practices adopted by the diamond industry.
Customers can be confident that comprehensive measures have been taken to assure that the diamonds that we sell are “conflict” free. Since 2000, Ben Bridge has required vendors to sign an agreement pledging that they will not knowingly buy or sell “conflict” diamonds. Beginning in 2003, we took that requirement a step farther as supporters of the Kimberley Process and the System of Warranties, an industry program of self-regulation.
The Kimberley Process
Today, 80 governments have adopted a system to control the export and import of rough diamonds mined from 2003 onward. Known as the Kimberley Process, it requires that each shipment of rough diamonds –before cutting and polishing – be placed in a tamper-resistant container and accompanied by a government-validated certificate. Each certificate is uniquely numbered and contains data describing the shipment’s contents.
Participating countries have pledged to impound shipments of rough diamonds from any nation that fails to subscribe to the standard. Shipments lacking proper certification will be treated in a similar way. The U.S. Customs is responsible for enforcement at American ports of entry.
Ben Bridge and CRJP
All suppliers of merchandise and materials to Ben Bridge must agree to and sign the Ben Bridge Supplier Code of Conduct agreement, attesting to their participation in the Kimberley Process and System of Warranties. In addition, Ben Bridge supports and is working to promote the principles of the Council for Responsible Jewelry Practices (CRJP), which includes the social, ethical and environmentally sensitive practices of mining and production throughout the supply chain. The standards and values of Ben Bridge are well known and respected throughout the global jewelry industry.
You have the assurance and commitment of Ben Bridge Jeweler in providing the very best in fine jewelry values with a caring concern for people – in our communities and in the world where we live and work.
For more information about our Corporate Social Responsibility and Practices, please e-mail our Customer Service Department at info@benbridge.com for more information.
Efforts to Eradicate Slavery and Human Trafficking from Supply Chain
Ben Bridge Jeweler requires that our suppliers certify materials incorporated into the jewelry we purchase comply with laws regarding slavery and human trafficking of the country or countries in which the suppliers are doing business. Further, Ben Bridge maintains internal accountability standards and procedures for employees or contractors failing to meet company requirements regarding slavery and trafficking. Ben Bridge has provided associates with direct responsibility for the supply chain with training regarding mitigating the risks within the supply chain of products.
Ben Bridge Jeweler is a family-operated chain of retail jewelry stores located in nine Western states. Headquartered in Seattle since 1912, Ben Bridge is a member of the Berkshire Hathaway family of companies.
Filing A Grievance
Ben Bridge has established this grievance procedure to hear concerns about circumstances regarding provenance claims and supply chains involving diamonds/coloured gemstones from conflict-affected and high-risk areas. You can also review our Supply Chain Policy here.
Concerns can be raised by interested parties via email or telephone to:
Angela Hope, VP of Merchandise