HS 711620 Of precious or semi-precious stones (natural, synthetic or reconstructed)
Quick Answer: Articles of precious or semi-precious stones (natural, synthetic or reconstructed) imported under HS 711620 enter the UK at rates up to 2.00%, the EU at rates up to 2.50%, and the US with rates ranging from Free to 80%. This classification covers finished articles, such as jewelry, ornaments, and decorative items, made from gemstones like diamonds, rubies, sapphires, and emeralds, as well as their synthetic or reconstructed counterparts. Importers should be aware of the significant duty rate variations across major markets, particularly the high US rates for certain items. According to CustomTariffs data, understanding these specific rates is crucial for accurate duty assessment and cost planning.
What Are the Import Duty Rates?
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 7116200000 | — | — | — |
| 7116201100 | 0.00 % | — | — |
| 7116208000 | 2.00 % | — | — |
🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 7116201100 | 0.00 % | — | — |
| 7116200000 | — | — | — |
| 7116208000 | 2.50 % | — | — |
🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 7116200500 | 3.3% | Free (17 programs) | ["g"] |
| 711620 | — | — | — |
| 7116201500 | 6.5% | Free (17 programs) | ["g"] |
| 7116203000 | 2.1% | Free (17 programs) | ["g"] |
| 7116204000 | 10.5% | Free (17 programs) | ["No."] |
Special rates available under trade agreements including USMCA, KORUS, GSP.
Duty rates sourced from the USITC (US International Trade Commission) Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) (accessed 2/22/2026), EU TARIC – DG TAXUD (Directorate-General for Taxation and Customs Union) (accessed 2/22/2026), and UK Trade Tariff – HMRC (His Majesty's Revenue and Customs) (accessed 2/22/2026).
Data compiled and presented by HSRates.
Which Trade Agreements Reduce Duties for HS 7116.20?
Imports of Of precious or semi-precious stones (natural, synthetic or reconstructed) may qualify for reduced or zero duty rates under free trade agreements and preferential programs. The overview below shows available preferential arrangements by jurisdiction, compiled by HSRates from official tariff and trade agreement data.
United States (HTSUS)
Free for USMCA, KORUS, and 15 other programs
European Union (TARIC)
Preferential rate data not yet available.
United Kingdom
Preferential rate data not yet available.
Preferential rates require proof of origin and may be subject to quotas or conditions. Always verify eligibility with a licensed customs broker.
Data compiled by HSRates.
Which Preferential Rates Apply to Your Origin Country?
Select an origin country to see if preferential rates apply.
Preferential rates based on available trade agreements. Actual rates may vary.
How to Classify This HS Code?
What products does HS 711620 cover?
This subheading covers articles made from precious or semi-precious stones, whether they are natural, synthetic, or reconstructed. According to the World Customs Organization (WCO) Harmonized System Explanatory Notes and definitions found in official tariff schedules like the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) and the EU's TARIC, this includes items such as cut and polished gemstones, beads, and other finished articles where the primary component is these specified stones. The key criterion is the material composition of the article itself.
What falls outside HS 711620?
The following products are excluded from HS 711620: articles of precious metal set with precious or semi-precious stones, which are classified under Chapter 7108, 7109, 7110, 7111, or 7113; imitation jewelry, even if it contains synthetic stones; and articles where the precious or semi-precious stones are merely decorative elements rather than the principal material, such as certain types of machinery or tools with small gemstone components.
What are common classification mistakes for HS 711620?
A common error is misinterpreting the primary material of the article. For instance, an item that is primarily made of precious metal but is set with a semi-precious stone would not fall under 711620 but rather under headings for precious metal articles. Additionally, confusing synthetic stones with imitation stones can lead to incorrect classification, as imitation stones are typically classified under Chapter 7117.
How should importers classify products under HS 711620?
The correct procedure for classifying products under HS 711620 involves a thorough examination of the article's composition. Importers and customs brokers must determine if the article is made of precious or semi-precious stones (natural, synthetic, or reconstructed) and if these stones constitute the principal material. Reviewing product specifications, invoices, and consulting the relevant HS Explanatory Notes and national tariff schedules, such as the UK Trade Tariff, are crucial steps.
How is the duty calculated for products under HS 711620?
A string of 100 polished synthetic rubies, each weighing approximately 0.5 carats, declared at a customs value of $500 USD, would attract a US duty of $25.00. This is calculated using the Most Favored Nation (MFN) rate of 5.0% ad valorem, applied to the declared customs value ($500 USD × 0.05 = $25.00). This is calculated using the MFN rate published in the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule.
Which trade agreements reduce duties for HS 711620?
Several free trade agreements may reduce the applicable duty rate for HS 711620, including the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA), where originating goods may be admitted duty-free. For goods originating from certain developing countries, the Generalized System of Preferences (GSP) may offer reduced or zero duty rates. Documentation typically required includes a self-certified origin statement for USMCA or a GSP Form A for GSP beneficiaries, depending on the specific jurisdiction and agreement.
```Which HS Codes Are Related?
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FAQ
What are the typical import duty rates for articles of precious or semi-precious stones (HS 711620)?
Import duty rates for HS code 711620, covering articles of precious or semi-precious stones (natural, synthetic, or reconstructed), vary significantly by country and trade agreement. For instance, the US Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate is often 0.00% or a low percentage like 2.00% or 3.3% ad valorem, depending on the specific article. The EU's TARIC system and the UK Trade Tariff also show a range of rates, with some being free and others around 2.50% ad valorem. It is crucial to consult the specific tariff schedule of the importing country for the exact rate applicable to your goods.
How is the import duty for HS 711620 calculated? Can you provide an example?
Import duty for HS 711620 is typically calculated on an ad valorem basis, meaning a percentage of the declared customs value of the goods. For example, if a shipment of synthetic gemstone jewelry is valued at $10,000 USD and the applicable duty rate is 2.50% ad valorem, the duty would be calculated as: $10,000 (value) × 0.025 (duty rate) = $250 USD. Some specific items might have compound duties (ad valorem plus a specific rate per unit), so always verify the duty calculation basis in the relevant tariff.
What documentation is typically required when importing articles under HS code 711620?
When importing articles classified under HS 711620, standard import documentation is required, including a commercial invoice, packing list, and bill of lading or air waybill. Additionally, depending on the nature of the stones (natural vs. synthetic/reconstructed) and the importing country's regulations, you may need certificates of origin, gemological reports from accredited laboratories (e.g., GIA, SSEF) to verify the authenticity and type of stones, and potentially import licenses or permits. For natural precious stones, documentation proving legal sourcing may also be necessary.
Which trade agreements commonly offer preferential duty rates for HS 711620?
Many trade agreements can provide preferential duty rates for articles of precious or semi-precious stones under HS 711620. For example, the US has agreements with countries like Australia (AU), Canada (CA), Chile (CL), and South Korea (KR) that may offer reduced or free entry. The EU has similar agreements with various partners, and the UK's trade agreements also extend preferential treatment. The specific preferential rates and eligibility criteria (e.g., rules of origin) are detailed in each trade agreement and should be verified with the importing country's customs authority or through official tariff databases like the EU TARIC or UK Trade Tariff.
What distinguishes articles classified under HS 711620 from other jewelry or precious metal categories?
HS code 711620 specifically covers 'Articles of precious or semi-precious stones (natural, synthetic or reconstructed), not elsewhere specified or included.' This means the primary characteristic and value of the article must stem from the stones themselves, not from the precious metal setting (which would fall under Chapter 71, headings like 7113 for jewelry or 7114 for goldsmiths' or silversmiths' wares). If an article is primarily a precious metal item with stones as embellishments, it would likely be classified based on the precious metal component. Conversely, if the stones are the main component and the setting is secondary, 711620 is appropriate. The WCO Harmonized System Explanatory Notes provide further guidance on distinguishing these categories.