Ethics is a word that has been popping up almost everywhere in recent years – and jewelry is no exception. Manufacturers often use the term “ethical jewelry” as part of their marketing without always explaining exactly what they mean.
As an independent designer who creates on a small scale but with a strong emphasis on authenticity, I find it important to honestly show you what is really behind this term , what I can offer - and what distinguishes true ethics from a mere advertising label.
What is commonly considered “ethical jewelry”?
Ethical jewelry is jewelry that is produced in a way that respects human rights, the environment, and the transparency of the origin of the materials used. This includes:
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Extracting precious metals and stones without exploiting workers and children
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Mining that does not devastate the landscape and complies with ecological standards
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Production with an emphasis on fair working conditions and wages
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Minimizing waste, using recycled materials and sustainable packaging
This all sounds good – and indeed, I follow many of these principles. But ethics should not be a mere facade. And this is where the difference between marketing and reality often appears.
I am a small manufacturer. Does this mean I make ethical jewelry?
In many ways – yes . As a small producer, I work with different principles than big brands or anonymous supply chains:
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I design and make each piece of jewelry by hand, with an emphasis on detail, quality and an individual approach.
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I use recycled gold and silver , or materials whose origin I know
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I work locally – without outsourcing to unknown conditions
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I believe in transparent communication with you as customers.
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I don't make hundreds of pieces, but I create jewelry that has a personal story and lasting value.
However, it is important to note that according to official definitions, the term “ethical jewelry” is not a protected or regulated term. And this is where the scope for abuse comes in.
When is “ethics” just marketing?
You may have noticed that many brands these days claim to use recycled gold or silver – and pass it off as an ethical extension. But the truth is that recycling precious metals has been a common practice in the industry for decades . Precious metals are rare, so they are repeatedly melted down and processed – not only for environmental reasons, but also for economic reasons.
That doesn't mean it's wrong. But pretending that this alone makes jewelry ethical is misleading . True ethics require deeper insight, transparency, and concrete evidence .
What certifications exist for ethical jewelry – and what does it entail?
For a manufacturer to label their jewelry as "ethical" by formal authority, they typically must meet the standards of international certification bodies, such as:
RJC - Responsible Jewelery Council
The most well-known organization that certifies companies according to strict criteria in the field of:
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respect for human rights
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working conditions
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environmental
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transparent origin of materials
However, obtaining RJC certification is:
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expensive (entry fee and regular audits)
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time-consuming (requires detailed documentation of the entire supply chain)
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more suitable for medium and larger companies
Fairmined and Fairtrade Gold
These labels guarantee that the gold comes from small mines that meet ethical and environmental standards while supporting local communities.
I personally do not have these certificates yet - not only because of the cost, but also because I obtain most of the materials used from recycled sources, which I process manually and locally , outside of large distribution structures.
Nevertheless, I try to follow these principles as the standard of my work.
So how do you know if a piece of jewelry is truly ethical?
Don't just rely on words. Be interested. Ask questions.
You can recognize ethical jewelry if the designer can answer these questions:
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Who made the jewelry and where?
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Where do metal and stones come from?
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How was the jewelry processed and packaged?
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Does the jewelry have a certificate or direct origin?
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Can you be sure that someone didn't suffer because of him?
What can I guarantee – for myself as an author?
I won't promise you official certifications, which I don't have yet. But I can offer you honesty, transparency, and a conscious approach to every piece of jewelry I create for you.
I believe that true ethics are not about the logo on the box, but about the respect with which I approach my work. And that is what makes sense to me – creating slowly, honestly, with love for the craft and respect for every detail.
In conclusion
Ethics in jewelry is not an easy topic. But I believe that as customers you have the right to know what you are buying – and why. That is why I share with you both the behind-the-scenes of creation and the reality of small-scale production. And if you are looking for jewelry that carries not only beauty, but also meaning, you have come to the right place.
