Handmade with care: The value of sustainable and ethical jewellery

Jewellery has always held a significant place in human culture, symbolising everything from status and wealth to personal milestones and cherished memories. However, not all jewellery is created equal. The distinction between handmade sustainable and ethical jewellery and commercially made jewellery is profound, encompassing aspects of environmental impact, ethical considerations, craftsmanship, and individuality. Here’s why handmade sustainable and ethical jewellery is important and how it stands apart from its commercial counterparts.

The dark side of commercial jewellery

Those cheap earrings you found online or at a fast-fashion store may seem like a great deal, but they often come with hidden costs. Commercially made jewellery is frequently produced under conditions that are far from sustainable and ethical.

• Child labour: Many mass-produced jewellery items are often made in factories where child labour is prevalent. Young children are forced to work in hazardous conditions for minimal pay, depriving them of education and a healthy childhood.
• Toxic chemicals: The production of commercial jewellery often involves the use of toxic chemicals that are harmful to both workers and the environment. These chemicals can cause serious health issues for those involved in the manufacturing process and contribute to environmental pollution.
• Irresponsible mining: The materials used in commercial jewellery are often sourced from large-scale mining operations that cause significant environmental damage. Deforestation, soil erosion, and water pollution are common consequences of irresponsible mining practices.
• Profit over people and planet: Large corporations are primarily driven by profit, often at the expense of environmental and ethical considerations. They prioritise cost-cutting measures and high production volumes, leading to lower quality products and a disregard for sustainable and ethical practices.
• Lack of transparency: Commercial jewellery companies often have opaque supply chains, making it difficult to trace the origins of materials. This lack of transparency can hide unethical practices, such as the use of conflict diamonds and irresponsibly sourced metals.
• Exploitative labour practices: Workers in commercial jewellery manufacturing are often subjected to exploitative labour practices, including low wages, long working hours, and unsafe working conditions.

Image by Aima Yasir on Unsplash

The benefits of handmade sustainable and ethical jewellery

Environmental impact

• Sustainable practices: Handmade sustainable jewellery prioritises the use of eco-friendly materials and practices. Artisans often source recycled metals and ethically mined gemstones, reducing the demand for new mining operations, which are notoriously harmful to the environment.
• Eco-friendly techniques: Artisans who create handmade jewellery tend to use traditional, low-impact techniques that require less energy and produce less waste compared to industrial manufacturing processes. This includes methods like hand forging, casting, and soldering, which are inherently more sustainable than the energy-intensive processes used in mass production.

Ethical considerations

• Fair labor practices: Handmade jewellery is often produced by individual artisans or small workshops that adhere to fair labor practices. This means fair wages, safe working conditions, and respect for workers' rights. Ethical jewellery makers are transparent about their sourcing and manufacturing processes, ensuring that every piece of jewellery is made without exploitation.
• Conflict-free materials: Ethical jewellery makers are committed to sourcing conflict-free materials. This means that the metals and gemstones used do not fund armed conflict or come from regions with human rights abuses. Artisans take great care to verify the origins of their materials, often working with suppliers who adhere to strict ethical standards.

Craftsmanship and individuality

• Artisan skill and dedication: Handmade jewellery showcases the skill and dedication of the artisan. Each piece is crafted with care, precision, and a deep understanding of the materials. This craftsmanship results in unique, high-quality pieces.
• Unique designs: Handmade jewellery often features unique, one-of-a-kind designs that reflect the creativity and vision of the artisan. These pieces are not only beautiful but also carry a story and a sense of individuality that mass-produced jewellery cannot match. Owning a piece of handmade jewellery means owning something truly unique, with no two pieces exactly alike.

Supporting local and small businesses

When you purchase handmade sustainable and ethical jewellery, you are often supporting local artisans and small businesses. This helps sustain traditional crafts and local economies, providing livelihoods for skilled artisans. It fosters a sense of community and encourages sustainable economic practices.

Image by Jewellery by Toni-Maree
Bunny Rabbit Bangle, 2024. 925 Sterling Silver, untreated natural Red Jasper.

Why did I choose to become a sustainable and ethical jeweller?

Choosing to become a sustainable and ethical jeweller was not just a career decision for me; it was a deeply personal commitment to my values and the kind of world I want to help create.

Here are the key reasons behind my decision:

• Respect for the environment: From an early age, I have always felt deeply connected to nature. I grew up appreciating the beauty and tranquillity of the natural world, and as I learned more about the environmental impacts of various industries, I felt compelled to make choices that would help preserve this beauty. By choosing to use responsibly mined or recycled metals and ethically sourced gemstones, I aim to minimise negative impacts and promote more sustainable practices.
• Ethical labour practices: The stories of exploitation in the jewellery industry are heart-wrenching. Many commercial jewellery pieces are produced under conditions that involve child labour, unfair wages, and unsafe working environments. By committing to ethical labour practices, I ensure that every piece of jewellery I create is made under fair conditions.
• Craftsmanship and quality: There is something profoundly satisfying about creating something with your own hands. The process of designing and crafting jewellery allows me to pour my heart and soul into each piece, ensuring that it is not only beautiful but also made to last.
• Creating meaningful connections: Jewellery is deeply personal. It is often given as a gift to mark significant life events and milestones, carrying with it a story and emotional connection. By creating handmade sustainable and ethical jewellery, I can offer my customers pieces that are not only aesthetically pleasing but also meaningful and aligned with their values.
• Inspiring change: I believe that every small action can contribute to broader change. By choosing to be a sustainable and ethical jeweller, I hope to inspire others to consider the impact of their purchases and to support businesses that prioritise sustainable and ethical practices.

Choosing this path has not always been easy, but it has always felt right. Creating sustainable and ethical jewellery is a journey filled with care and dedication. I spend a lot of time researching and finding suppliers who provide recycled metals, conflict-free gemstones, and other eco-friendly materials. These materials can be challenging to source and often cost more, but the effort is worth it to ensure the integrity of each piece. In my studio, I embrace eco-friendly practices, using non-toxic chemicals, minimising waste, and recycling materials. My choice to design and make jewellery that cares for our earth and its people involves a dedicated commitment to continuing to learn, grow, and find new ways to improve my practices and contribute positively to the world.

Image by Jewellery by Toni-Maree
Butterfly Locket, 2024. 999 Fine silver, 925 Sterling silver. D 25 mm.

Final thoughts

Handmade sustainable and ethical jewellery is not just a fashion statement; it is a commitment to environmental stewardship, ethical labour practices, and the preservation of traditional craftsmanship. By choosing handmade jewellery, you are not only investing in a unique, high-quality piece but also supporting practices that prioritise the well-being of the earth and its people. In a world where mass production often leads to environmental and social harm, handmade sustainable and ethical jewellery offers a beautiful and meaningful alternative.