Ethically Made Jewelry
Jewelry is often a symbol of friendship, celebration, and love. It can be a perfect gift for a loved one on a special occasion. But behind every shiny rock, there is an impact.
According to a report by Human Rights Watch, the process of producing and sourcing jewelry often involves the exploitation of the environment and workers. That is why we love ethical jewelry brands taking a stance against the jewelry industry's issues.
What Makes Jewelry Ethical and Responsible?
The demand for ethically and sustainably made jewelry is growing and many companies are dedicated to creating jewelry responsibly.
Here are some elements of ethical and socially responsible jewelry:
Conflict-Free Diamonds and Metals
Conflict minerals are minerals that are mined through forced labor in war zones. In the jewelry industry, conflict-free materials are becoming increasingly important as consumers demand more transparency and accountability in the supply chain. This includes minerals such as diamonds, gold, and tin, which are often sourced unethically from Africa and South America. By using ethically sourced diamonds and metals, jewelry makers can ensure that their products are not contributing to human rights violations. When buying jewelry, make sure the diamonds and metals used are conflict-free. This can be verified through certifications such as the Kimberley Process Certification for diamonds.
Fair Labor Practices
The jewelry industry has a long history of labor violations, including child labor, low wages, and hazardous working conditions. In recent years, there has been growing awareness and concern about labor abuses in the jewelry industry, particularly in developing countries. As a result, many consumers seek jewelry produced ethically and sustainably, using fair and ethical labor practices. This includes paying workers a fair wage and having safe and humane working conditions. Fair trade jewelry is typically a bit more expensive, but worth the cost.
Environmental Stewardship
Jewelry production often impacts the environment, destroying habitats and causing water pollution. Some companies in the industry lessen their impact by reducing waste and conserving resources. Practices such as using recycled materials, reducing water usage, and sourcing materials from eco-friendly suppliers are common as well.
Certifications
Ethical jewelry companies should be transparent about their sourcing and manufacturing processes, making it easy for consumers to make informed decisions. To ensure transparency, there are certifications from independent organizations that vouch for the quality and ethical standards of jewelry material.
For a complete list of sustainable jewelry certifications check out this list.
These are our top 5 ethical jewelry brands taking the lead in sustainable jewelry:
31 Bits
31 Bits is committed to ethical practices. They use recycled materials to create their jewelry, reducing waste and preserving natural resources. The company also focuses on empowering women and promoting fair labor practices. 31 Bits partners with artisans in Uganda to create their jewelry, providing training and fair wages to help women lift themselves out of poverty. The company also strives to reduce its carbon footprint through renewable energy and eco-friendly packaging. These sustainability practices are integrated into every aspect of 31 Bits' business, from the conflict-free materials they use to the way they operate their facilities. By choosing jewelry from 31 Bits, customers can feel confident in their choice and support a company that is making a difference in the world.
Mejuri
Mejuri is a jewelry company that leads the way with sustainability and ethical practices. The company works with responsible manufacturers and suppliers to ensure their jewelry is sustainable and ethical. They also support women-led businesses. Mejuri also uses recycled packaging and shipping materials to minimize waste and reduce its carbon footprint. Additionally, the company is focused on reducing waste and promoting sustainability through the design and production of its jewelry. Mejuri's products are made to last, using the finest ethical gold and silver. By choosing sustainable jewelry from Mejuri, customers can support a company that is making a difference in the world.
ABLE
ABLE works with women-led artisan communities to create handcrafted jewelry that is both beautiful and sustainable. Their mission is to provide stable, sustainable jobs for women leaving unsafe situations. ABLE places a strong emphasis on responsible sourcing. The company also works to promote fair labor practices, providing living wages and opportunities for growth to the women they work with. ABLE is focused on reducing waste and promoting sustainability through the design and production of its jewelry.
Laura Elizabeth Jewelry
Laura Elizabeth Jewelry is committed to sustainability, especially in packaging. The company uses recycled materials to create its jewelry, reducing waste and preserving natural resources. They also strive to minimize their carbon footprint through the use of eco-friendly packaging and reducing waste in their production processes, with all shipping and packaging made from recycled materials. Additionally, Lauren Elizabeth Jewelry is focused on promoting fair labor practices, ensuring that all workers in their casting studio are paid above minimum wage.
Brilliant Earth
Brilliant Earth's commitment to ethical practices is evident in its use of ethical diamonds and other responsibly sourced gemstones, as well as its use of recycled metals in its jewelry. They also prioritize fair labor practices and work to ensure that their jewelry is made in safe and ethical working conditions. Brilliant Earth also offers a wide variety of stunning and unique jewelry designs. Whether you're in the market for an ethical engagement ring, wedding band, or just a beautiful piece of jewelry to add to your collection, Brilliant Earth is a brand that you can feel good about supporting.
Ultimately, the choices we make as consumers have the power to shape the world, and choosing ethically and sustainably made jewelry is one way to make a positive impact. Next time you are in the jewelry market looking for a ring or a pair of earrings, consider the impact of your purchase and choose an ethical jewelry brand. Choose an ethical ring or sustainable earrings, you won't regret it.
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