The Ultimate Ethical Jewelry Buying Guide

Ethical jewelry is more than just a fashion statement. It is a way of expressing your values, supporting social and environmental causes, and making a positive impact on the world.

But how do you know if the jewelry you buy is truly ethical? What are the criteria and standards that define ethical jewelry? And where can you find the best ethical jewelry brands to suit your style and budget?

In this comprehensive guide, we will answer all these questions and more. We will help you understand what ethical jewelry is, how to assess it, and how to choose it for special occasions. 

We will also introduce you to some of the top ethical jewelry brands that are making a difference in the industry and the world. And we will give you some tips on how to care for your ethical jewelry and ensure its longevity.

Whether you are looking for a gift, a treat for yourself, or a way to express your love, ethical jewelry is a perfect choice.

By following this guide, you will be able to make informed and responsible decisions when buying jewelry, and enjoy the beauty and meaning of your ethical pieces.

Understanding Ethical Jewelry

What is ethical jewelry? Ethical jewelry is jewelry that is made with respect for people and the planet.

It means that the materials used to make the jewelry are sourced in a way that does not harm the environment, the workers, or the communities involved. 

It also means that the jewelry is produced in a way that adheres to fair trade principles, such as fair wages, safe working conditions, and no child labor. 

Ethical jewelry is also transparent about its supply chain and impact, and strives to improve its practices and standards over time.

Origins of Ethically Sourced Materials

One of the main aspects of ethical jewelry is the origin of the materials used to make it. 

Ethical jewelry uses materials that are ethically sourced, meaning that they are obtained in a way that minimizes the negative effects on the environment and the people involved. Some examples of ethically sourced materials are:

Recycled metals: Recycled metals are metals that are reclaimed from old or unwanted jewelry, electronic devices, or industrial waste. 

Recycling metals reduces the need for mining, which can cause environmental damage, human rights violations, and conflict. Recycled metals are also more energy-efficient and less polluting than virgin metals.

Lab-grown diamonds: Lab-grown diamonds are diamonds that are created in a laboratory using advanced technology. Lab-grown diamonds have the same physical and chemical properties as natural diamonds.

But they do not require mining, which can have devastating effects on the environment and the              people living near the mines. Lab-grown diamonds are also more affordable and traceable than                natural diamonds.

Fair trade gemstones: Fair trade gemstones are gemstones that are mined and cut in a way that respects the rights and well-being of the workers and the communities involved.

Fair trade gemstones follow the standards set by the Fair Trade Federation, which include fair wages, safe working conditions, environmental protection, community development, and transparency.

Fair trade gemstones also support artisanal and small-scale miners, who often lack access to markets and resources.

Fair Trade Principles in Jewelry

Another important aspect of ethical jewelry is the production process. Ethical jewelry follows the principles of fair trade, which are a set of social, economic, and environmental criteria that aim to create a more equitable and sustainable trade system.

Some of the fair trade principles that apply to jewelry are:

Fair prices and wages: Ethical jewelry pays fair prices to the suppliers of the materials, and fair wages to the workers who make the jewelry. Fair prices and wages are based on the cost of production, the living wage, and the market value.

Fair prices and wages enable the suppliers and the workers to cover their basic needs, invest in their businesses, and improve their quality of life.

Safe and healthy working conditions: Ethical jewelry provides safe and healthy working conditions for the workers who make the jewelry. Safe and healthy working conditions include adequate ventilation, lighting, sanitation, and protective equipment.

Safe and healthy working conditions also prevent the exposure to hazardous substances, such as mercury, cyanide, and arsenic, which are often used in conventional jewelry production.

No child labor or forced labor: Ethical jewelry does not use child labor or forced labor in any stage of the production process. Child labor is the work that deprives children of their childhood, education, and potential.

Forced labor is the work that is performed involuntarily, under threat of penalty or coercion. Ethical jewelry respects the rights and dignity of the workers, and ensures that they are free to choose their employment and leave it at any time.

Respect for cultural identity and diversity: Ethical jewelry respects the cultural identity and diversity of the suppliers, the workers, and the customers.

Ethical jewelry does not appropriate or exploit the traditional knowledge, skills, or designs of the indigenous or local communities. Ethical jewelry also celebrates and promotes the diversity and creativity of the jewelry makers and the jewelry wearers.

Assessing Jewelry for Ethical Standards

How do you know if the jewelry you buy is ethical? There are several ways to assess the ethical standards of jewelry, such as looking for certification and marks, asking questions to the retailers, and doing your own research.

Here are some tips on how to assess jewelry for ethical standards:

Certification and Marks to Look For

One of the easiest ways to identify ethical jewelry is to look for certification and marks that indicate the compliance with certain standards and criteria. Certification and marks are usually displayed on the jewelry itself, the packaging, or the website of the brand.

Some of the most common and reputable certification and marks for ethical jewelry are:

Fairtrade Gold and Silver: Fairtrade Gold and Silver are metals that are sourced from certified fair trade mines, which follow the standards set by Fairtrade International.

These standards include fair prices and wages, safe and healthy working conditions, environmental protection, community development, and transparency.

Fairtrade Gold and Silver are marked with the Fairtrade logo, which is a blue and green symbol with the word “FAIRTRADE”.

Fairmined Gold and Silver: Fairmined Gold and Silver are metals that are sourced from certified fairmined mines, which follow the standards set by the Alliance for Responsible Mining.

These standards are similar to the Fairtrade standards, but they also include the empowerment of women and the promotion of responsible consumption.

Fairmined Gold and Silver are marked with the Fairmined logo, which is a green and yellow symbol with the word “FAIRMINED”.

Kimberley Process Certification Scheme: The Kimberley Process Certification Scheme is a system that aims to prevent the trade of conflict diamonds, which are diamonds that are used to finance armed conflicts and human rights abuses.

The Kimberley Process Certification Scheme requires that every shipment of rough diamonds is accompanied by a certificate that verifies its origin and legitimacy.

The Kimberley Process Certification Scheme is marked with the Kimberley Process logo, which is a blue and white symbol with the letters “KP”.

Responsible Jewellery Council: The Responsible Jewellery Council is an organization that sets standards and certifies the ethical practices of the jewelry industry, from mine to retail.

The Responsible Jewellery Council standards cover the human rights, labor rights, environmental impact, and product disclosure of the jewelry supply chain.

The Responsible Jewellery Council certification is marked with the Responsible Jewellery Council logo, which is a green and white symbol with the letters “RJC”.

Questions to Ask Retailers

Another way to assess the ethical standards of jewelry is to ask questions to the retailers who sell it. 

Retailers are the ones who have direct contact with the customers, and they should be able to provide accurate and transparent information about the jewelry they offer.

Some of the questions to ask retailers are:

Where does the jewelry come from?: This question helps you understand the origin and traceability of the jewelry.The retailer should be able to tell you the name and location of the mine, the factory, and the workshop where the jewelry was sourced and produced.

The retailer should also be able to provide documentation or certification that proves the origin and traceability of the jewelry.

How is the jewelry made?: This question helps you understand the production process and the impact of the jewelry. The retailer should be able to tell you the methods and materials used to make the jewelry, and how they affect the environment and the people involved.

The retailer should also be able to provide evidence or certification that shows the compliance with the ethical standards and criteria of the jewelry industry.

Who makes the jewelry?: This question helps you understand the social and economic benefits of the jewelry. The retailer should be able to tell you the name and profile of the workers who make the jewelry, and how they are treated and compensated.

The retailer should also be able to provide testimonials or stories that illustrate the positive impact of the jewelry on the workers and their communities.

Top Ethical Jewelry Brands to Consider

If you are looking for ethical jewelry, you might be overwhelmed by the number and variety of brands that claim to be ethical.

How do you know which ones are truly ethical and which ones are greenwashing or misleading? To help you narrow down your choices, we have compiled a list of some of the top ethical jewelry brands that you can consider.

These brands are not only ethical, but also stylish, affordable, and high-quality. Here are some of the top ethical jewelry brands to consider:

Brand Overviews and Ethical Practices

SOKO: SOKO is a social enterprise that connects artisan entrepreneurs in Kenya with global consumers.SOKO uses mobile technology to coordinate and manage the production and distribution of the jewelry, which is handmade by the artisans using locally sourced and recycled materials.

SOKO empowers the artisans to improve their skills, income, and well-being, and also supports various social and environmental causes, such as education, health, and wildlife conservation.

SOKO is a certified B Corporation, which means it meets the highest standards of social and environmental performance. You can find SOKO’s products on its website or on other platforms.

Aurate: Aurate is a modern and minimalist ethical jewelry brand that offers fine jewelry with no markups. Aurate uses recycled gold and conflict-free diamonds and gemstones, sourced from suppliers who follow ethical and sustainable practices.

Aurate’s jewelry is designed and crafted in New York, using 3D printing and hand-finishing techniques. Aurate also has a social mission: for every piece sold, it donates a book to a child in need, through its partnership with Mastery Charter.

Aurate is also transparent about its impact and publishes its sustainability report online. you can find Aurante products on its website or on other platforms, such as SCS Global Services or [Picup Media].

Edge of Ember: Edge of Ember is a contemporary and ethical jewelry brand that celebrates craftsmanship and culture. Edge of Ember uses recycled metals and ethically sourced gemstones, sourced from fair trade cooperatives and social enterprises.

Edge of Ember’s jewelry is crafted by skilled artisans in Indonesia, Thailand, Vietnam, and India, who are paid fair wages and provided with safe working conditions. 

Edge of Ember also supports various social and environmental causes, such as education, health, and wildlife conservation. Edge of Ember is a member of the Responsible Jewellery Council, which means it follows the ethical standards and best practices of the jewelry industry. 

You can find Edge of Ember’s products on its website or on other platforms, such as [Our Good Brands] or the Good Trade.

Making the Ethical Choice for Special Occasions

Ethical jewelry is not only suitable for everyday wear, but also for special occasions, such as engagements, weddings, anniversaries, birthdays, and holidays.

Ethical jewelry can make these occasions more meaningful and memorable, as it reflects your values, your personality, and your love. Here are some tips on how to make the ethical choice for special occasions:

Ethical Engagement and Wedding Rings

Engagement and wedding rings are symbols of commitment, love, and partnership. They are also one of the most popular and expensive types of jewelry. Therefore, choosing ethical engagement and wedding rings is a significant and impactful decision.

Ethical engagement and wedding rings are rings that are made with ethically sourced and produced materials, such as recycled metals, lab-grown diamonds, fair trade gemstones, and fairmined gold and silver.

Ethical engagement and wedding rings are also designed and crafted with care and creativity, and often have unique and personal touches, such as custom engraving, bespoke settings, or alternative stones.

Some of the benefits of choosing ethical engagement and wedding rings are:

You support the ethical jewelry movement: By choosing ethical engagement and wedding rings, you show your support for the ethical jewelry movement, which is a global effort to make the jewelry industry more responsible and sustainable.

You also inspire others to follow your example and choose ethical jewelry for their special occasions.

You express your values and personality: By choosing ethical engagement and wedding rings, you express your values and personality, as well as your love for your partner.

You can choose rings that reflect your beliefs, your passions, and your style, and that match your partner’s preferences and expectations. You can also customize your rings to make them more personal and meaningful.

You save money and the environment: By choosing ethical engagement and wedding rings, you save money and the environment, as ethical jewelry is often more affordable and eco-friendly than conventional jewelry.

You can find ethical rings that fit your budget and your taste, and that do not harm the environment or the people involved in the production process.

Some of the best ethical engagement and wedding ring brands to consider are:

Brilliant Earth: Brilliant Earth is a leading ethical jewelry brand that offers a wide range of engagement and wedding rings, made with recycled metals, lab-grown diamonds, and fair trade gemstones. 

Brilliant Earth also has a collection of vintage and antique rings, which are restored and refurbished to their original beauty. Brilliant Earth is certified by the Responsible Jewellery Council, and donates 5% of its profits to environmental and social causes.

Vrai: Vrai is a modern and minimalist ethical jewelry brand that offers engagement and wedding rings, made with recycled gold and lab-grown diamonds. Vrai’s diamonds are grown in California, using solar energy and zero-emission technology.

Vrai’s rings are designed and crafted in Los Angeles, using 3D printing and hand-finishing techniques. Vrai is also a certified B Corporation, which means it meets the highest standards of social and environmental performance.

Do Amore: Do Amore is a social and ethical jewelry brand that offers engagement and wedding rings, made with recycled metals and conflict-free diamonds and gemstones.

Do Amore’s rings are handcrafted in the USA, using ethical and sustainable practices. Do Amore also has a unique social mission: for every ring sold, it provides clean water to a person in need, through its partnership with Water.org.

Gifts with a Conscience: Ethical Jewelry Gifting

Ethical jewelry is not only a great choice for yourself, but also for your loved ones. Ethical jewelry can make a thoughtful and meaningful gift for any occasion, such as birthdays, holidays, graduations, or just because.

Ethical jewelry can show your appreciation, your affection, and your values to the person you are gifting. Ethical jewelry can also be a way of sharing a story, a cause, or a message with the person you are gifting.

Some of the benefits of gifting ethical jewelry are:

You support the ethical jewelry movement: By gifting ethical jewelry, you support the ethical jewelry movement, and you encourage the person you are gifting to do the same.

You also raise awareness and educate the person you are gifting about the issues and the solutions in the jewelry industry. You also inspire others to join the movement and choose ethical jewelry for their gifts.

You express your values and personality: By gifting ethical jewelry, you express your values and personality, as well as your feelings for the person you are gifting.

You can choose ethical jewelry that reflects your beliefs, your passions, and your style, and that matches the person you are gifting’s preferences and expectations. You can also customize your ethical jewelry to make it more personal and meaningful.

You give a gift that lasts: By gifting ethical jewelry, you give a gift that lasts, both in quality and in impact. Ethical jewelry is made with high-quality materials and craftsmanship, and it is designed to last for a long time.

Ethical jewelry is also made with a positive impact on the environment and the people involved in the production process, and it contributes to a better world.

Some of the best ethical jewelry gift brands to consider are:

ABLE: ABLE is a lifestyle brand that empowers women through ethical fashion. ABLE offers a variety of ethical jewelry, made with recycled metals and fair trade gemstones.

ABLE’s jewelry is handmade by women artisans in Nashville, Peru, Mexico, and Ethiopia, who are paid fair wages and provided with education and opportunities. ABLE is also transparent about its impact and publishes its wages and practices online.

Edge of Ember: Edge of Ember is a contemporary and ethical jewelry brand that celebrates craftsmanship and culture. Edge of Ember offers a range of ethical jewelry, made with recycled metals and ethically sourced gemstones.

Edge of Ember’s jewelry is crafted by skilled artisans in Indonesia, Thailand, Vietnam, and India, who are part of fair trade cooperatives and social enterprises. Edge of Ember also supports various social and environmental causes, such as education, health, and wildlife conservation.

Soko Glam: Soko Glam is a beauty and wellness brand that curates the best of Korean skincare and makeup. Soko Glam also offers a selection of ethical jewelry, made with recycled metals and natural stones.

Soko Glam’s jewelry is inspired by Korean culture and aesthetics, and it is designed and made in Seoul, South Korea. Soko Glam also donates a portion of its profits to Girls Inc., a nonprofit organization that empowers girls and young women.

Caring for Your Ethical Jewelry

Ethical jewelry is not only a purchase, but also an investment. Ethical jewelry is made with high-quality materials and craftsmanship, and it is designed to last for a long time.

However, ethical jewelry also requires proper care and maintenance, to preserve its beauty and functionality. Here are some tips on how to care for your ethical jewelry:

Cleaning and Maintenance Tips

Ethical jewelry can get dirty, tarnished, or damaged over time, due to exposure to dust, moisture, chemicals, or friction. Therefore, it is important to clean and maintain your ethical jewelry regularly, to keep it shiny and sparkling.

Here are some cleaning and maintenance tips for ethical jewelry:

Use a soft cloth: The simplest and safest way to clean your ethical jewelry is to use a soft cloth, such as a microfiber or a cotton cloth. Gently rub the cloth over the surface of your jewelry, to remove any dirt or oil.

You can also dampen the cloth with a little water, if needed. Avoid using abrasive or rough materials, such as paper towels, tissues, or toothbrushes, as they can scratch or damage your jewelry.

Use a mild soap: If your ethical jewelry is very dirty or stained, you can use a mild soap, such as a dish soap or a baby shampoo, to clean it. Mix a few drops of soap with warm water, and soak your jewelry in the solution for a few minutes.

Then, rinse your jewelry with clean water, and dry it with a soft cloth. Avoid using harsh or acidic cleaners, such as bleach, ammonia, or vinegar, as they can corrode or discolor your jewelry.

Use a polishing cloth: If your ethical jewelry is tarnished or dull, you can use a polishing cloth, such as a silver or gold polishing cloth, to restore its shine. Rub the polishing cloth over the surface of your jewelry, using circular motions.

You can also use a polishing paste or cream, if needed. Avoid using polishing products that contain alcohol, as they can damage your jewelry.

Use a professional service: If your ethical jewelry is damaged or broken, you can use a professional service, such as a jeweler or a repair shop, to fix it. A professional service can repair or replace any parts of your jewelry, such as clasps, chains, prongs, or stones.

A professional service can also resize or engrave your jewelry, if needed. Avoid trying to fix your jewelry yourself, as you might cause more harm than good.

Ensuring Longevity of Wear

Ethical jewelry is made to last, but it also depends on how you wear and store it. Ethical jewelry can be affected by various factors, such as temperature, humidity, light, or pressure.

Therefore, it is important to ensure the longevity of your ethical jewelry, by following some simple rules. Here are some rules to ensure the longevity of your ethical jewelry:

Wear your jewelry with care: Ethical jewelry is durable, but it is not indestructible. Ethical jewelry can be scratched, bent, or chipped, if you wear it in inappropriate situations.

Therefore, wear your jewelry with care, and avoid wearing it when you are doing activities that can damage it, such as sports, gardening, or cleaning. Also, avoid wearing your jewelry when you are using products that can harm it, such as perfume, lotion, or hairspray.

Store your jewelry properly: Ethical jewelry is sensitive, but it is not immune. Ethical jewelry can be tarnished, faded, or oxidized, if you store it in improper conditions.

Therefore, store your jewelry properly, and avoid storing it in places that can affect it, such as direct sunlight, extreme heat or cold, or moisture. Also, avoid storing your jewelry in a way that can cause it, such as tangled, piled, or loose.

Instead, store your jewelry in a jewelry box, a pouch, or a ziplock bag, and separate your jewelry by type, material, or color.

The Future of Jewelry Buying

Ethical jewelry is not only a trend, but also a movement. Ethical jewelry is a way of changing the jewelry industry, and the world, for the better.

Ethical jewelry is a way of creating a more responsible and sustainable trade system, that respects the rights and well-being of the people and the planet.

Ethical jewelry is also a way of expressing your values, your personality, and your love, through beautiful and meaningful pieces.

Trends in Ethical Jewelry

Ethical jewelry is constantly evolving and innovating, to meet the needs and expectations of the customers, and to address the challenges and opportunities of the industry. Ethical jewelry is following and creating various trends, such as:

Transparency and traceability: Ethical jewelry is becoming more transparent and traceable, as customers demand more information and accountability from the brands.

Ethical jewelry is using technology, such as blockchain, QR codes, or RFID tags, to track and verify the origin and journey of the materials and the products.

Ethical jewelry is also using storytelling, such as videos, blogs, or podcasts, to share the stories and the impact of the people and the places behind the jewelry.

Diversity and inclusivity: Ethical jewelry is becoming more diverse and inclusive, as customers seek more representation and empowerment from the brands. 

Ethical jewelry is celebrating and promoting the diversity and creativity of the jewelry makers and the jewelry wearers, by offering a variety of styles, designs, and sizes, that suit different tastes, preferences, and needs.

Ethical jewelry is also supporting and collaborating with various groups and communities, such as women, minorities, or LGBTQ+, to create a more equitable and respectful jewelry industry.

Circularity and sustainability: Ethical jewelry is becoming more circular and sustainable, as customers care more about the environmental and social impact of the brands.

Ethical jewelry is adopting and implementing the principles of circular economy, such as reducing, reusing, and recycling, to minimize the waste and the emissions of the jewelry production and consumption.

Ethical jewelry is also using and developing more sustainable and innovative materials, such as biodegradable, organic, or vegan, to reduce the dependence and the harm of the conventional materials.

How You Can Contribute to the Movement

Ethical jewelry is not only a choice, but also a responsibility. Ethical jewelry is a way of making a difference, not only in your own life, but also in the lives of others.

Ethical jewelry is a way of being part of a community, a culture, and a cause, that is bigger than yourself. Ethical jewelry is a way of being a conscious and compassionate consumer, and a citizen of the world.

Here are some ways you can contribute to the ethical jewelry movement:

Educate yourself and others: Ethical jewelry is a way of learning and teaching, about the issues and the solutions in the jewelry industry.

Educate yourself and others, by reading, watching, or listening to reliable and reputable sources, such as books, documentaries, or podcasts, that cover the topics and the trends of ethical jewelry.

Educate yourself and others, by asking, answering, or discussing questions, opinions, or experiences, that relate to ethical jewelry, with your friends, family, or online communities.

Support and promote ethical jewelry brands: Ethical jewelry is a way of supporting and promoting ethical jewelry brands, that are doing good and doing well in the industry.

Support and promote ethical jewelry brands, by buying, wearing, or gifting their products, and by choosing quality over quantity, and value over price.

Support and promote ethical jewelry brands, by following, liking, or sharing their content, and by leaving reviews, feedback, or testimonials, on their websites, social media, or online platforms.

Advocate and campaign for ethical jewelry: Ethical jewelry is a way of advocating and campaigning for ethical jewelry, and for a more responsible and sustainable jewelry industry.

Advocate and campaign for ethical jewelry, by signing, joining, or creating petitions, movements, or initiatives, that call for action and change in the industry, such as the Kimberley Process, the Fair Trade Federation, or the Responsible Jewellery Council.

Advocate and campaign for ethical jewelry, by speaking, writing, or creating content, that raises awareness and educates others about the importance and the benefits of ethical jewelry, such as blogs, articles, or videos.

Conclusion

Ethical jewelry is more than just a product. It is a statement, a story, and a solution. Ethical jewelry is a way of expressing yourself, your values, and your love, through beautiful and meaningful pieces.

Ethical jewelry is a way of supporting and empowering the people and the planet, through responsible and sustainable practices. Ethical jewelry is a way of being part of a movement, a community, and a cause, that is changing the world for the better.

We hope this guide has helped you understand what ethical jewelry is, how to assess it, how to choose it for special occasions, how to care for it, and how to contribute to the movement.

We hope this guide has inspired you to join us in our mission to make the jewelry industry more ethical, and the world more beautiful.

Thank you for reading, and happy ethical jewelry buying! 😊