You care about the planet and your impact on it, and you want to buy things that are eco-friendly. But when it comes to jewellery, what does that mean? Jewellery makers that say they embrace slow fashion principles (see here) are cropping up all over the place, but some unscrupulous brands are greenwashing their products, pretending to be more eco-conscious than they actually are. To make sure you are truly doing something good for the planet, read on and find out seven ways you can make the switch to sustainable jewellery.
1. Show Your Metal
Metal mining can be a very polluting and destructive process, thus being selective about the type of metal used in your pieces is key. While gold and silver-plated jewellery is popular due to its economical price point, it isn’t a great choice from the point of view of sustainability. The base is often brass and can react with your skin, turning your finger (wrist, neck, etc.) an unattractive shade of blue-green. The plating is also very thin and wears off, discolouring the piece and making it more likely it’ll wind up in the bin. For special pieces you’re expecting to last for a lifetime (and even beyond) such as wedding rings and studs, gold truly is the gold standard. Look for pure 14- or 24-karat. If solid gold is beyond your budget, seek out gold-filled, sterling silver, and gold vermeil as more affordable but still eco-friendly options.
2. Explore Recycled
One big plus of precious metals is that they can last forever, making them the ideal candidate for recycling. More and more eco-conscious jewellers are reclaiming and reusing metals, turning them into unique and even custom pieces, perfect for anyone who is looking for special jewellery with a unique story.
3. Consider the Human Cost
It’s hard to imagine how many people have had a hand in the production of each individual item that you own. Sustainable jewellers are often small, one-person businesses, but even so, the gemstones and metals they use come from somewhere. Because mining can be a deadly business, some brands are using lab-grown gems, while others only buy from artisans who are guaranteed a fair wage for their work. Still others support humanitarian projects, such as hiring the homeless or donating funds to provide training for the disadvantaged. Look for brands who are paying it forward.
4. Packaging Matters
Another thing to consider when buying accessories (and anything else) is the material it comes packed in. Jewellery brands that support sustainability usually make a point to carefully consider every aspect of their business, but if they don’t mention it on their website or in the shop, it never hurts to ask. The best type of packaging can be recycled. Look for locally-sourced, FSC-certified materials and no extra papers, such as a receipt that can be sent via email.
5. Follow the Trail
Understanding the chain of production of your jewels is an important component of ethical consumption. The film Blood Diamonds brought to light the human and environmental cost of mining for diamonds and other precious stones and metals. When you work with a designer or brand that offers transparency through its entire system of its production and transportation, you can breathe easier knowing you’re doing your part for the planet and your fellow human beings.
6. Embrace Minimalism
Less really can be more. Next time you’re browsing for jewellery, take a moment before hitting the ‘buy now’ button. Think, Do I really want this? How many times will I actually wear it? If you tend to be an impulse buyer, save it in your basket and remind yourself you can always come back to it later. You may well forget about piece, a pretty clear indication you never needed it in the first place. But if you find yourself thinking about the piece, then feel free to buy. Be sure to enjoy it thoroughly!
7. Wear What You Own
One of the easiest things you can do to cut down on waste and live more sustainably is to wear what you already own. Love your belongings and show them off; it’s why you bought them in the first place. When you get tired of your jewellery and want a change, consider holding a swap with friends and family, or giving them away. This can be a fun and easy way to get something new without contributing to landfill.
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