OREANDA-NEWS. March 11, 2008. Following a comprehensive study involving independent consultants and the Palladium Alliance International, under the auspices of the International Platinum Group Metals Association, a decision has been taken to plan and implement a market development programme for palladium jewellery.  The initiative will initially focus on China and the United States of America.  Norilsk Nickel, the largest producer of palladium, will lead, supported by the major palladium producers in South Africa (Anglo Platinum, Impala Platinum, and Lonmin) and the United States of America (Stillwater Mining Company).

The objective is to establish successfully a clear and specific brand position for palladium in jewellery which, in partnership with the jewellery designers, manufacturers and retailers, will achieve a sustainable market with growth opportunities for palladium metal offtake. This follows on from the platinum jewellery development programme supported by the South African platinum producers since 1975.  The platinum programme is led by Anglo Platinum and it will continue.  Norilsk Nickel and Stillwater Mining Company will be supporting the platinum programme.

Both platinum and palladium jewellery market development, will in future be funded by the same group, but will be managed by separate organisations.  A new individual brand identity will be developed for palladium jewellery.

The key Platinum Group Metal Producers believe this to be an important strategic development for the industry, both cementing the market position for platinum jewellery and significantly enhancing the value of palladium as a jewellery metal in its own right.