Humans have been wearing jewelry for thousands of years. In ancient years, jewelry was worn by noble and wealthy families. And today, it is the entertainment industry that has played a significant role in marketing and revolutionizing the jewelry industry.
Gone are the days when you had to go physically to a jewelry artisan to purchase your bling. In recent years, more and more jewelry vendors are setting up online stores for customers to buy from the comfort of their homes or office. But it’s also important to understand that the jewelry you choose to purchase and wear daily may affect the environment and the people who made it. Although it might be more expensive in the short term, thinking long-term about your jewelry choices is one of the effective ways you can make a difference in the industry. Doing so allows you to avoid known unethical practices such as conflict diamonds, injury to the workforce, and pollution.Â
This article discusses what you need to know about ethical jewelry. You’ll learn what ethical jewelry is, how you can purchase your pieces online, and more. Keep scrolling.
What Is Ethical Jewelry?Â
With the rise of fast fashion, ethical jewelry is a hot topic that has come up recently. Ethical jewelry and other buzz words such as sustainable jewelry have been thrown around more than ever. Although most people use the two terms interchangeably, there is a clear difference between the two.Â
Ethical jewelry mainly focuses on the entire supply chain and how people are treated along its production line. It means safe working conditions, fair wages, and cultural policies. Generally, ethical jewelry ensures companies treat their workforce as human beings when processing the products.Â
On the other hand, sustainable jewelry primarily focuses on the impact of each piece on the environment. Recycled materials fall under this category, and companies trying to reduce their carbon footprints. Â
You can earn yourself a gold star by choosing to save up to buy ethical jewelry that will last longer! That’s solid gold made from ethically sourced and recycled materials. Â
How To Shop Ethical Jewelry Online?Â
Buying ethically sourced jewelry can be a daunting task. With so many dishonest vendors out in the sea, you should be extra cautious when purchasing your jewelry online. If you’re ready to pop up the much-awaited question, conduct extensive research to identify the best places to buy moissanite engagement rings online to ensure a memorable moment with your partner. Some of the tips you should consider are:
- Ethical Labor Standards
There are labor standards and regulations every employer should adhere to when producing a piece of jewelry. These standards include fair wages, vacations, safe workspaces, and more. Before you purchase any jewelry, conduct extensive research to identify how the vendor treats their workforce.
Some of the ways you can determine whether the company is adhering to the set labor standards are by interviewing their team members. Enquire whether there is fair treatment and distribution of available tasks. If you’re content with your research, you can purchase your ethical jewelry from that brand.
- Source Of Raw Materials
It is another tip you should consider when buying an ethical piece of jewelry. Most materials used in the production process are shipped from overseas. Some companies may instigate wars and other issues to acquire resources from those areas. Some companies may supply weapons and funding to destabilize the government, making it easier for them to grab available resources.
Also, some materials are sourced from dangerous and life-threatening jungles such as mosquito-infested areas. For this reason, understanding the source of materials used makes it easier for you to determine whether the jewelry meets ethical standards. Â
- CertificationÂ
Most governments implement policies that ensure their citizens receive ethical and sustainable jewelry. Vendors are supposed to comply with the set rules and regulations. Some companies make it easier for potential customers to access the document on their sites. If it’s not there, make an effort to ask the vendor to mail it to you.Â
If the vendor is unwilling to share the documentation, that might be your cue to move to the next brand in your locality. Â
- Shop For Vintage And Antique JewelryÂ
If you want the best option- go for vintage. The reason is that vintage jewelry is as sustainable as it gets. It doesn’t need new resources, and there are no added manufacturing and processing impacts. Apart from that, you can rest assured that you’re purchasing a quality product (ensure you buy from a reputable vendor); after all, it stood the test of time. Some of the common areas where you can purchase your vintage and antique jewelry include flea markets, curated vintage shops, auctions, and more.
Bottom LineÂ
As discussed above, purchasing ethical jewelry can be daunting. For this reason, it’s vital to conduct extensive research to ensure you’re purchasing ethically-sourced jewelry. Ask for the necessary documentation before buying any piece of jewelry.
