NAJ Launches New Code of Practice to Support Jewellers in Meeting Legal Requirements for Weighing Precious Metals
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The National Association of Jewellers (NAJ) has released a new Code of Practice designed to help jewellery businesses understand and comply with the legal requirements surrounding the use of weighing equipment when buying, selling, or valuing precious metals and stones. The document, developed at the request of and with guidance from Trading Standards, provides clear, practical advice to ensure jewellers remain compliant with regulations.
The new Code of Practice clarifies when Class II weighing instruments are required, what markings and approvals jewellers must look for, and the importance of location-specific calibration. It also outlines common pitfalls, such as relying on non-trade-approved scales or relocating equipment without re-verification. It provides examples of approved data plate markings to help businesses check their equipment is legally compliant.
Issued as Assured Advice through the NAJ’s Primary Authority partnership with Trading Standards, the Code gives jewellers confidence that by following its recommendations, they are meeting their regulatory obligations and upholding best practice in customer transactions.
Katie Gillespie, NAJ Compliance and Policy Manager, said,“We know that weighing precious metals and stones is an essential part of many jewellery transactions, but the legal requirements can be complex and are often misunderstood. Trading Standards approached the NAJ for help in producing clear, industry-specific guidance, and we’re pleased to offer NAJ members and the wider trade a straightforward resource that supports compliance and protects both businesses and consumers. This Code of Practice will help ensure accuracy, fairness, and professionalism across the trade.”
The NAJ encourages all jewellers who handle precious metals, gemstones, or pearls to familiarise themselves with the new guidance.
Download Code of Practice for Free
What are the NAJ Codes of Practice?
The NAJ Codes of Practice are a series of easy-to-understand, actionable documents that help ensure legal compliance across a range of jewellery-specific issues. From diamond terminology usage to pricing and returns policies, the Codes of Practice ensure the jewellery trade understands its legal obligations.
To improve standards across the trade, the NAJ has now made these codes available to everyone within the jewellery industry. View and download all Codes of Practice via the link below.
About the NAJ
We are the leading voice for the UK Jewellery industry, shaping the way for our 1500 member companies employing 24,000 people. We protect, promote and prepare our members to make them Fit for the Future. The Association was formed in 2015 through the unification of the British Jewellers' Association (BJA) and National Association of Goldsmiths (NAG). The Institute of Registered Valuers is also part of the NAJ family, comprised of around 100 professional valuers with formal qualifications and substantial experience. Every NAJ member is required to abide by the NAJ's Code of Conduct - based on honesty, integrity and professionalism.
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