All jewelry is not created equally, especially when it comes to sustainability and conflict-free sourcing. If you want jewelry that looks good and supports thoughtful practices, consider responsibly sourced jewelry.
Multiple programs, techniques and processes help ensure the availability of responsibly sourced jewelry including engagement rings, wedding rings, diamond jewelry, and everyday fine jewelry.
If conscientious creation is important to you, opt for jewelry sourced with durable metals and conflict-free diamonds.
Pillars of Responsible Sourcing
Responsibly sourced jewelry is designed with distinct sourcing protocols and design approaches. Key pillars include:
- Working with metal suppliers who adhere to strict criteria regarding human rights, social issues and the environment.
- Increasing the use of repurposed gold and secondary sources.
- Reducing energy use in production environments.
- Designing pieces that can be easily repaired.
- Creating styles that can be upgraded, rather than needing full replacement.
Conflict-Free Diamonds
Since 2003, The Kimberly Process has greatly increased the availability of conflict-free diamonds. It’s an international certification program that helps to prevent the trade of conflict diamonds through regulations, traceability, verification, and strict protocols throughout a diamond’s journey.
Diamonds traced through The Kimberly Process bring brilliance without worry. Participating suppliers must adhere to strict compliance assessments to ensure their diamonds are 100% conflict-free. Since the process’s inception, 86 countries have joined in its commitment to conflict-free diamonds.
It is estimated that 99.8% of the global rough diamond production is completed through Kimberly Process participants.
Environmental Considerations of Jewelry Durability
Responsibly sourced and sustainable jewelry is not just about the materials used in production. Jewelry waste is also an important aspect to keep in mind, and some materials are less durable than others. For example, gold plated jewelry is not nearly as durable as real gold jewelry.
Pieces made from precious metals like gold, silver and platinum can be easily repaired, reworked, updated, and redesigned almost limitlessly. By consciously creating jewelry that can be worn frequently and reworked as needed, jewelers are helping to reduce jewelry waste.
FAQs About Responsibly Sourced Jewelry
At Blue Nile, we are proud to offer responsibly sourced jewelry and 100% conflict-free diamonds.
Many women’s and men’s jewelry styles crafted in solid metals with genuine gemstones are incredibly durable.
Responsibly sourced jewelry made from solid precious metals is easy to maintain. Regularly polish your pieces with a specialized cloth or clean them using a mixture of gentle dish soap and water. Follow gemstone care tips for any unique gemstones in your jewelry.
Conflict-free diamonds are gemstones that do not fund violence or rebel groups. They are traced through The Kimberly Process.
Finding Responsibly Sourced Jewelry
When visiting local jewelry stores or exploring jewelry online, focus on jewelers that are transparent in their sourcing priorities. Ensure their diamonds adhere to The Kimberly Process and inquire about any metals or gemstones.
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