Jewellers’ Network had the privilege of interviewing Dave Meleski, CEO of the Richline Group & Chair of the Responsible Jewellery Council. In March 2024, Meleski was elected Chairman of the Responsible Jewellery Council (RJC). He emphasized the importance of the RJC in setting industry standards and compliance.
“It is a critical time for the RJC
to continue to grow and lead the
global supply chain in setting standards
for our industry.”
Dave Meleski – CEO of the Richline Group & Chair of the Responsible Jewellery Council
Dave Meleski is the President and CEO of Richline Group, a global jewellery manufacturer and marketer wholly owned by Berkshire Hathaway. He has led Richline since 2007 and expanded it across four continents. In March 2024, he was elected Chairman of the Responsible Jewellery Council (RJC), succeeding David Bouffard. He emphasized the importance of the RJC in setting industry standards and compliance: “It is a critical time for the RJC to continue to grow and lead the global supply chain in setting standards for our industry.”
Richline SA, based in Germiston, Gauteng, is located in the Gold Zone at Rand Refinery. It has significantly impacted both local and international jewellery markets. RJC launched its updated Code of Practice and a new standard for Lab Grown materials. Membership has grown to over 2000 members globally, with a focus on education of these standards.
Meleski noted that RJC standards account for global legislation, including EU laws. He stated that export remains an opportunity for South Africa if they can develop products consumers demand, while import challenges persist due to duties.
South Africa’s rich resources offer potential through Chain of Custody systems. Companies need to ensure internal systems are compliant. Meleski sees technologies like AI and blockchain as tools to enhance traceability and sustainability. He emphasised that each global market is unique and requires tailored strategies.
He advised South African jewellers: “Understand what you do well, and focus on that.” For the country to lead in ‘conscious jewellery,’ it must evolve around sustainability and Chain of Custody.
Meleski concluded: retail membership in RJC is the most urgent global priority. As retailers adopt global sustainability, more consumers will demand it—making retail the key to spreading the message.