4 Tips for Making Ethical Jewelry Choices
As the saying goes, ‘all that glitters is not gold’, and nothing could be truer when you consider some of the negative aspects of the luxury jewelry industry. Wearing a glamorous bit of bling or rocking a diamond engagement ring can leave a bitter taste in the mouth when you start to learn about some of the unstainable and unethical jewelry production practices.
While the industry has done a good job in covering up some hard truths, an inquisitive mind will struggle to overlook the negative impact the jewelry industry has on the earth and people in developing countries. If you’re on the hunt for a special piece of jewelry but want to do this with a clear conscience, here are some tips to help you make more ethical jewelry choices:
Buy Vintage or Second-Hand Items
One of the most eco-friendly approaches to buying jewelry is to opt for second-hand items. The beauty of these pieces lies in the fact that they’ve already been made, so they won’t have any further impact when it comes to polluting the earth. Each piece will also have its own unique history, which certainly adds to the charm. Visit some thrift stores or garage sales, as you never know where you’ll find a special piece.
Family Heirlooms
Before you start shopping, why not start by looking through some family heirlooms? Perhaps your mother or grandmother have some jewelry they no longer wear. Fashion goes through cycles, so you never know when these pieces could make a comeback. What’s more, a piece of jewelry previously worn by a family member carries a special bit of history, making it even more unique.
Shop At Ethical Retailers
While this may involve a little more effort, try to find an ethical retailer for your jewelry purchases. Do some research to find out about their sourcing practices and what they do to protect workers, especially those in the developing world. For example, the Rosados Box created by Love and Promise jewelers is a great example of a company taking pride in implementing ethical practices.
Consider Recycled Metals
When it comes to choosing jewelry, materials matter. For instance, gold mining is one the most destructive industries in the world. It not only generates tons of waste, but gold mining has also been known to displace communities, pollute water supplies and destroy the land. Silver and platinum also have their issues too. The easiest way to avoid contributing to these practices is to use a jeweler that works with recycled metals or find retailers that have taken measures to improve mining practices.
Shopping for jewelry is always difficult. Not only do you have to account for personal tastes and preferences, but you also need to do your best to be sustainable and ethical when it comes to your choices. While making such choices certainly requires a bit more research and effort, it can make so much difference to those involved or impacted by the jewelry industry, so it’s all worth it in the end.
Photo by Ekaterina Shevchenko on Unsplash
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