Jewelry is the one accessory that shoots straight to the heart. Every piece has a unique story. We fiddle a ring, touch the charm on a necklace… and just like that, we’re transported to a special person, place or time in our life. But what about the issue of sustainable jewelry…
Sadly, there’s often a backstory to that gem or metal that’s not so warm and fuzzy. We’ve shared the scoop on the challenges of producing sustainable jewelry— the lack of transparency around ethical production and supply chain sustainability in the jewelry business. Toxic soil disruption, dangerous work practices, economic injustice— these are just a few of the devastating social and environmental issues being disrupted by brands who care.
We did a deep dive into eight sustainable jewelry brands committed to environmentally-friendly options, ethical and safe practices, recycling, upcycling, lab transparency and more. Here’s the scoop, so you can shop consciously too…
Loren Stewart | Baby chubbie huggie earrings shop now
Los Angeles based Loren Stewart creates heirloom-worthy pieces made of upcycled vintage gold in a waste-free production facility. They use ethically sourced materials in compliance with United Nations Resolutions and US labor practices. They are a part of the Jeweler’s Vigilance Committee and abide by US and UK Hallmarking regulations. We love their work and equally impressed by their integrity.
YOUNG FRANKK | crest ring shop now
Young Frankk is another brand working with recycled metals and locally made materials to minimize environmental impact. We also love this sustainable jewelry brand’s plastic-free packaging.
saskia diez | net sustain wire silver ring shop now
Saskia Diez is a German jewelry designer who creates minimalist, modern pieces from recycled gold and silver, using local goldsmiths and locally sourced materials.
artisan & fox | jano hammered cuff shop now
Artisan & Fox has had a deeply ethical and sustainable business model from the get-go. They invest in local makers, helping them expand their micro-enterprises in developing regions and then connecting them to mindful consumers. Expect artisanal, distinctive jewelry, as well and beautiful home goods and more.
jacqueline rose | freshwater pearl wand pendant shop now
Los Angeles artisans’ handmake this collection that’s as traditional and classic as it is edgy and exotic. It also wows us for its sustainable practices.
mondo mondo | suede ring in light blue shop now
Designer and perfumer, Natasha Ghosn, is the creative mastermind behind these organic, ornamental and archetypal pieces. But we also love this LA-based studio for its focus on ethical and sustainable production.
j hannah | tetra hoops | shop now
These hoops check our architectural and timeless boxes. Another DTLA designer, Jess Hannah, uses 100% post-consumer recycled 14k gold and sterling silver, recycled or ethically sourced gemstones and all hand made by independent manufacturers.
nathalie schreckenberg | nara silver cuff shop now
We love Natalie’s celebration of nature’s imperfections and asymmetries. This Spain based designer handcrafts organic, raw and feminine shapes from recycled sterling silver.
