The Ultimate Guide to Buying Fine Jewelry Responsibly

“For me, sustainability isn’t just an option, it’s a necessity,” says Sophie Howard, founder of By Pariah. “It is woven into every aspect of our brand – we create jewelry that not only looks good, but also feels good to wear, knowing it’s made with consideration,” she explains. By Pariah’s pieces are crafted from 100% recycled gold and sterling silver, and she consciously considers the overall impact of manufacturing, too. “I’m proud to say that our production recycles nearly 80% of its industrial water usage back into the manufacturing processes. Low-power LED lighting is used throughout the facility, industrial wastewater is PH-treated for sedimentation before release, and casting fumes are filtered before release.”

“From the beginning, we have always been driven by a desire to flout convention and create a new visual language without compromising our own value system and ethical commitments,” says Anna Jewsbury, artistic director at Completedworks. “This includes a consideration for materials – not just the materials we produce our jewelry from, but also the packaging they’re presented in,” she explains. Completedworks’ presentation boxes are made using recycled paper and card that is FSC-certified, which enables businesses to choose paper sourced solely from positive forestry practices. “Producing from recycled paper versus virgin paper reduces greenhouse-gas emissions, uses less energy, less water, and produces less solid waste,” says Jewsbury. “Our soft jewelry pouches are also made from a mix of cotton and ramie – a strong natural fiber derived from nettles that is biodegradable.”