Photo: Brandi Urstadt
Gold jewelry has cultural and emotional meaning, and the process by which it is extracted from the earth and made available for use is untraceable to consumers. However, with growing concerns about sustainability, labor issues and environmental considerations, ethical sourcing of gold has become a key concern. Understanding gold and how it is sourced can empower consumers without compromising on style or quality.
What it means to raise money ethically
Ethical gold sourcing refers to practices that can reduce the negative impacts of gold mining and processing on the environment, worker health and safety, and surrounding communities. This includes fair wages, workplace health and safety, and reducing environmental degradation. Another part of ethical gold sourcing is traceability.
Unlike traditional mining practices, which can result in hazardous working conditions and environmental degradation, ethical practices are committed to ensuring accountability at all levels. This does not mean that all ethical gold does not look the same or command the same price. Rather, supply levels will be appropriately controlled.
- Environmental impact of gold mining
Traditional gold mining is extremely labor-intensive. It requires considerable amounts of water and electricity. This is done in a way that produces waste that can contaminate soil and water. The chemicals involved in gold mining, such as mercury and cyanide, are harmful.
Programs launched to counter this impact include reducing chemical usage, waste management, and land restoration. Some mines propose restoring damaged ecosystems after the mining process is complete, while others use clean technologies to prevent long-term impacts.
- artisanal small-scale mining
Much of the gold mined around the world comes from small-scale artisanal miners. These miners can work primarily alone or in small numbers and generally consider gold mining to be their livelihood. Ethical sourcing typically focuses on such miners and tends to improve aspects such as safety, absence of child labor, and fair pricing.
With the right support, artisanal mining can bring economic sustainability to local communities and reduce dependence on unhealthy mining practices. Our commitment to certification and collaboration with ethical consumers will facilitate the distribution of conflict-free mined gold to international markets.
recycled gold
Recycling gold is important to responsible jewelery makers. Recycled gold comes from gold found in existing materials such as old jewelry, used parts, and e-waste scrap. Recycling gold reduces the need to use gold extracted from mining.
In terms of quality, recycled gold is no different from mined gold. This gold can be processed to any purity and used to create jewelry of any design. This is one reason why some jewelers choose recycled gold to incorporate sustainability into their designs.
Photo: Harper Sunday
Certifications and standards you should know about
Several organizations are involved in defining ethical standards for gold procurement. These certifications assess mining practices, working conditions, and environmental impact. While no system is perfect, certification provides the level of assurance necessary for responsible sourcing.
Consumers often encounter terms such as Fairmined and Fairtrade Gold, which indicate an organization’s compliance with established social and environmental norms. Additionally, many organizations demonstrate their commitment to responsible practices through transparency reporting and independent audits.
How ethical gold fits into modern fashion
Our commitment to responsible sourcing aligns closely with the growing trend of values expressed by the beauty and fashion industry. Consumers are looking for products with individuality, commitment and timeless qualities. Jewelry is worn frequently and stored for long periods of time.
- Transparency as a style statement
Issues of origin now have a direct impact on brand identity. Transparency has become essential as consumers are drawn to the story behind the jewellery.
Frequently asked questions before purchasing
Consumers who care about ethics and money can start by asking some very simple questions. “Where does the gold come from? Is the gold recycled or mined? Is the gold sourced from a certified vendor?” Answering “yes” to any of these questions confirms that the money was sourced responsibly.
Price can also be an indicator. Ethical gold may charge higher costs due to fair labor practices and environmental protection. However, it is not necessarily expensive and has a different value than it appears.
Ethical gold sourcing marks a shift in the industry in that the value and creation of jewelery is now resonating with consumers. There is a convergence between beauty and responsibility, fashion and the future. As this spreads, ethical practices will carry over into the next era of jewelry fashion and use. Sourcing our jewelery with responsibly sourced gold provides better working conditions and environments, and helps redefine luxury in an ethical world. For more information, please see the accompanying infographic below.
Source: Lizbreygel: Beauty, Fashion, Lifestyle – www.lizbreygel.com
