What Are the Best Sustainable and Ethical Options for Buying Jewelry?

Sure, many companies in a variety of industries claim to be eco-friendly, but what exactly does that mean? And how does it apply to jewelry?

With the way the world is constantly changing and how we as humans are influencing these changes, it’s natural for us to be more concerned with utilizing practices that do not harm Mother Earth. In times past we lacked the scientific advancements necessary to understand ecological phenomena like global warming. It's no wonder that preserving the earth wasn’t top of mind, since we didn’t realize we were harming it. But now that it’s common knowledge, there are ways to live that are more kind to the earth, and that includes how we consume different items. In this case, jewelry can have a large and wide impact on the earth if we aren’t careful.

Let’s explore the world of eco-friendly jewelry to give you an idea of how you can enjoy jewelry without further damaging the earth that we so desperately need to preserve for future generations.

The process of creating jewelry can have effects on the environment that most people may not even consider. For example, the mining of precious metals, diamonds and other gemstones, can cause serious damage to the environment, including water pollution and the creation of  excess waste.

Luckily there have been many technological advancements allowing the jewelry industry to offer eco-friendly alternatives to mined options. 

Lab Grown Diamonds

One of the most impactful eco-friendly options in jewelry has been the rise in popularity of lab grown diamonds. Lab grown diamonds are so similar to mined diamonds that it’s impossible to tell them apart. In order to do so, specialized gemological equipment is necessary, as even a trained gemologist cannot visually notice a difference. Lab grown and mined diamonds share the same physical and chemical properties. Lab grown simply means they are manmade diamonds.

Since lab grown diamonds are grown above ground, they are eco-friendly, as they do not disturb the ground. They do not create as much waste or use as much water during their production. Beyond the eco-friendly aspect of lab grown diamonds, they are also more affordable than mined diamonds, which is a bonus for consumers. Since they offer the same properties and quality as mined diamonds–but at a lower cost–lab-created diamonds are a great option for those with a lower budget. 

Recycled Metal

Another way to contribute to sustainability is to purchase jewelry that is made with recycled metals. Instead of mining new metal, jewelers can choose to recycle metal from old jewelry, either of their own manufactured pieces, or purchased from customers in a gold buy program. When doing this, the need for new metals is reduced, which causes less environmental upset. You can also request that your own metals be utilized in creating a new jewelry piece by trading in that metal to the jeweler during the purchase process.

Ethical Gemstones

Similar to lab grown diamonds, there is also a need for a more earth-friendly gemstone market. There are different routes to this goal because naturally mined gemstones are much more popular than lab grown gemstones. Yes, gemstones can be grown in a lab, but they are not as exact as lab grown diamonds. The color, inclusions, etc. are not as close to the natural version as one would hope.

Nevertheless, lab grown gemstones are a great, eco-friendly, and budget-friendly option, though we understand they aren’t everyone’s cup of tea.

The other alternative would be to buy gemstones that are mined under carefully controlled conditions, including fair labor, and in ways that will minimize the disruption to the environment. The workers in these mines are provided with safer working conditions, educational opportunities, and necessary healthcare–which isn’t always easily accessible in countries with less resources.

Some countries have laws around mining regulations, which makes it easier to purchase gemstones from those locations with the understanding that they are adhering to eco-friendly guidelines. For example, some companies utilize closed-loop water systems, which continually recycles the water that’s being used for the mining process. This alone significantly reduces water waste.  

Armed with the knowledge of what eco-friendly jewelry options are available, you may be asking yourself: “But how can I know if the jewelry I want to purchase is eco-friendly?”

The answer is all in the research. Prior to making any purchases, research the brands you’re interested in working with. If they participate in eco-friendly business practices, it will be apparent in their marketing or the FAQ section of their website. Brands and jewelers should provide information on their sourcing and manufacturing practices, which will give you insight into their impact on the environment.

Many jewelers are open about their participation in the Kimberley Process, which is a certification that shows the jeweler only uses conflict-free diamonds. These diamonds are tracked from the mine to the jewelry piece to ensure they don't come from a conflict zone and weren't mined using violent practices. 

You can also choose to utilize your existing jewelry to create something new, recycling it instead of using new materials. 

A Sustainable, Eco-Friendly Future

As technology continues to improve, so will we advance ways to help the earth by utilizing less of her resources for our own gain. Hopefully the ease at which lab grown diamonds and gemstones are created will only improve, which may also continue to reduce the cost. New materials are always being discovered, which may lead to new eco-friendly jewelry options. In addition, new technology can lead to better mining techniques that disturb the earth less. 

Jewelry shopping can be overwhelming before you even consider the environment. However, with a little bit of research, it can be fairly rewarding in more ways than one. Purchasing environmentally friendly jewelry will not only make you feel better about your own choices, but if enough people do so, it can make an impact on the available resources and how long they remain undisturbed. By supporting companies who make it a priority to maintain sustainable business practices, you are encouraging other companies to get on board and contribute to a healthier earth. 

Purchasing lab grown diamonds or gemstones, as well as jewelry made from recycled metals will significantly reduce the negative impact on the Earth. Utilizing your own existing jewelry for a new design is another way to recycle and reduce waste. By educating yourself on the possibilities and making thoughtful choices, you can contribute to a more sustainable world and keep it healthy for future generations.