Jain Ethics in Practice: A Scholarly Review of Vardhaman Gems, Jaipur
With observations by Paul Barker, President, Leeds Theosophical Society
In contemporary discussions on ethical business and environmental responsibility, examples grounded in lived practice are rare. One such notable example appears in Jainism and Environmental Politics (Routledge, 2019) by Aidan Rankin, where Vardhaman Gems, Jaipur, is presented as a dedicated case study illustrating the practical application of Jain ethical principles in the global gemstone trade.
The inclusion of Vardhaman Gems in this academic work is significant. Rather than treating Jain ethics as abstract philosophical ideals, Rankin demonstrates how core Jain values—particularly ethical restraint, sustainability, and non-exploitative trade practices—can function effectively within a modern commercial framework.
Scholarly Endorsement
Reviewing Rankin’s work, Paul Barker, President of the Leeds Theosophical Society, draws attention to the clarity and effectiveness of this case study. He observes:
“The case study of the jeweller Vardhaman Gems and its business and environmental philosophies illustrates succinctly how Jain principles are applied successfully in a practical way.”
This remark highlights the strength of the case study in translating Jain philosophy into operational business ethics, making it accessible not only to scholars of religion and environmental studies but also to practitioners in commerce.
Jain Principles Applied to Business Ethics
Rankin’s analysis situates Vardhaman Gems within the broader ethical framework of Jainism, particularly emphasizing:
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Ahimsa (non-violence): Extending beyond physical non-harm to include non-exploitative economic relationships.
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Aparigraha (non-possessiveness): Operating within sustainable limits and consciously reducing material consumption.
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Anekāntavāda (pluralism): Encouraging ethical flexibility, dialogue, and responsibility in a complex global trade environment.
These principles are shown not as constraints on commerce, but as guiding values that shape responsible decision-making in sourcing, production, and trade.
The Vardhaman Gems Model
The case study presents Vardhaman Gems as an established jeweller and gemstone dealer headquartered in Jaipur, India, with operations extending to international markets. The firm’s proprietor, Jyoti Kothari, is described as coming from a long lineage of jewellers, bringing together traditional knowledge with contemporary quality management and ethical standards.
Rather than pursuing unlimited expansion, the business model emphasizes:
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Quality over volume
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Ethical sourcing and long-term relationships
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Conscious limitation of consumption and waste
This approach challenges dominant extractive models within the gemstone industry.
Environmental Philosophy Beyond the West
One of the book’s broader contributions is its argument that non-Western spiritual traditions, such as Jainism, offer viable frameworks for contemporary environmental politics. The Vardhaman Gems case study demonstrates how religious ethics can inform sustainable business practices without compromising economic viability.
In this sense, the firm is presented not merely as a commercial entity, but as an example of how spiritual restraint and ecological responsibility can coexist with global trade.
Conclusion
Paul Barker’s endorsement underscores the value of Rankin’s work in bridging theory and practice. Through the example of Vardhaman Gems, Jainism and Environmental Politics illustrates that ancient Jain principles—far from being antiquated—remain profoundly relevant to modern discussions on business ethics and environmental sustainability.
The case study stands as a reminder that ethical commerce is not a utopian ideal, but a lived possibility when philosophical values are consciously integrated into everyday business practice.
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