Sustainability and Globalization
Sustainability and globalization work hand in hand by allowing consumers to be a part of a movement for responsible jewelry. Not only that but more ethical brands and stand out and shine brighter and bring more awareness to people about how much better it is to choose from and ethical brand compared to other companies that exploit workers and damage the earth. But also it connects different cultures and practices around the world, like African beadwork or Moroccan filigree. Moreover, small artisans and businesses can sell their work internationally and providing more income and visibility.
What other companies are doing:
- Recycling/Upcycling Many jewelers are resorting to recycled metals and gemstones
- Sustainable Packaging Some jewelers use recycled packaging and reduced packaging size
- Ethical Sourcing Several companies are turning to mines that are adhering to proper labor practices and environmental standards.
What consumers can do:
- Supporting Local Artisans By supporting local artisans, people are not only helping small businesses but also reducing their carbon footprint.
- Check Certifications When looking on a website, check for certifications such as, Responsible Jewellery Council (RJC) or Fairtrade Gold. This tells whether or not a brand has ethically sourced their items and are providing environmentally friendly jewelry.
- Research Brands When looking for jewelry brands, research beforehand to see if the brand is transparent about manufacturing, its sourcing, and etc.