Imitation jewellery

Heading 7117 covers imitation jewellery. This includes rings, bracelets, necklaces, earrings, brooches and other personal ornaments made of base metals (even gold-plated or silver-plated), glass, plastics, imitation gemstones or other non-precious materials. Imitation jewellery does not contain precious metals or real precious stones. Customs duty rates for imitation jewellery are generally 4%. Import of imitation jewellery requires compliance with the REACH Regulation, particularly regarding nickel, cadmium and lead content in elements in contact with skin. Compliance with the General Product Safety Directive is also required. Heading 7117 is part of Chapter 71 (pearls, precious stones, precious metals and jewellery) of the Combined Nomenclature (CN) used in the European Union. This classification is based on the Harmonized System (HS) developed by the World Customs Organization (WCO), which is used in over 200 countries worldwide. The EU Combined Nomenclature extends the HS with additional 8-digit subheadings, while the TARIC system adds 10-digit codes for identifying specific trade measures. Each 4-digit heading such as 7117 is subdivided into 6-digit (HS), 8-digit (CN) and 10-digit (TARIC) subheadings that specify the type of goods for the purpose of applying the correct duty rates, trade measures and regulatory requirements. Correct determination of the 10-digit code is essential for establishing the amount of customs duties and taxes, as well as required permits and certificates.

Customs duty rates for imitation jewellery are generally 4%. Import of imitation jewellery requires compliance with the REACH Regulation, particularly regarding nickel, cadmium and lead content in elements in contact with skin. Compliance with the General Product Safety Directive is also required. Imitation jewellery must meet REACH restrictions on nickel (max. 0.5 µg/cm²/week) in skin-contact elements. Distinguish imitation jewellery (heading 7117) from precious metal jewellery (heading 7113) for correct classification. Cadmium and lead content in imitation jewellery is subject to REACH restrictions - laboratory testing is required. Imitation jewellery imported from third countries is often subject to product safety controls at the EU border. When importing goods under heading 7117 into the European Union, attention must be paid to applicable duty rates, which depend on the specific subheading (8- or 10-digit code) and the country of origin. MFN (Most Favoured Nation) duty rates apply to imports from countries with which the EU does not have preferential trade agreements. Current rates can be checked in the EU TARIC database on the European Commission website. Import of goods under heading 7117 may benefit from preferential duty rates under Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) concluded by the EU with third countries, the Generalised Scheme of Preferences (GSP) for developing countries, or autonomous tariff suspensions. Claiming preferences requires presentation of appropriate proof of origin (EUR.1 certificate, origin declaration, REX certificate or statement on origin under the registered exporter system).

Heading 7117 covers imitation jewellery. This includes rings, bracelets, necklaces, earrings, brooches and other personal ornaments made of base metals (even gold-plated. Distinction from 7116 (articles of natural or cultured pearls) and 7118 (coins) requires analysis of material, form and intended use. Common mistake: confusion with heading 7113 (articles of jewellery and part) - key is precise determination of material, processing stage and product function.