Top tips to ensure your jewelry collection echoes your sustainability values 

From Kim Larsen, Founder and jewelry designer based in New York City

Consumers today are much more aware of the impact of their shopping decisions on people and the environment. But when it comes to jewelry, making informed choices can be tricky. From mine to store, the industry’s operations can negatively affect its workers and their communities, the local fauna and flora, and the planet as a whole.

There are plenty of factors to take into account when purchasing jewelry: fair wages, gender equality, labor issues, environmental practices… So how can you ensure your choices are not causing harm? How can you build a jewelry collection that is ethically sourced and reflects your values? Here are my top tips for finding unique pieces that feature local, natural and recycled materials. 

What is Ethical Jewelry and Why Does It Matter? 

Ethical jewelry is created and sourced in a way which considers and minimizes its impact on the environment, as well as the people and communities involved in its production. Sourcing, manufacturing and designing such pieces requires a commitment to sustainable practices throughout the entire supply chain, from the extraction of raw materials right down to the packaging used at retail stage. 

“Many aspects of the jewelry industry threaten the health and well-being of our planet, its land, water, and people. I don’t understand how jewelry makers, manufacturers, and retailers can justify using metals and gemstones sourced from dealers who engage in destructive over-mining, use chemicals that harm water sources, or don’t pay their workers fair wages.” 

But minimizing harm doesn’t mean sustainability-conscious consumers have to forgo luxury. There is a way to source beautiful, high-quality options that reflect and embody their ethos and values.

Sustainably Sourced Jewelry Materials: What to Look For

Focusing on Local Metal and Gem Suppliers 

This may seem obvious considering the impact of the transportation industry on the environment, but it can also be difficult to achieve. As we know, provenance is not always advertised upfront. My top tip? When in doubt, ask around. 

“When it comes to materials, I regularly ask for recommendations from colleagues I trust, as they are my best source for finding respectable suppliers who have integrity, and are transparent. I also do my own due diligence, and research possible sources through websites that delve into labor issues, feature green practices, and explore sustainability as a whole.”  

Supporting Small-Scale Mining Operations 

It’s a known fact that large-scale operations are linked to soil and water pollution, and require a great deal of energy. Artisanal and small-scale miners, on the other hand, have a more positive impact on the communities around them. In addition to contributing to their local economy in a more meaningful way, they ensure better site longevity, which benefits those involved in the mining process. Again, due diligence is key: your jewelry maker should be able to provide information on the materials used in the manufacture of each of their pieces. 

Looking for Certified Jewelry Suppliers 

Every sector has a relevant set of benchmarks and certifications, and the jewelry industry is no exception. Some certification bodies take a bird’s-eye view and look at the entire supply chain (e.g. Responsible Jewellery Council), while others focus on raw materials such as gold (e.g. Fairtrade) or diamonds (e.g. The Kimberley Process). The important thing to remember? Choose one which aligns with your own values. 

“Fairmined Gold, which was set up by the Alliance for Responsible Mining, focuses on the positive social impacts and responsible environmental practices of small-scale mining operations. This aligns with my vision as a founder, which is why I am looking into the process of becoming certified as a Fairmined Gold buyer.” 

Reduce, Reuse, Recycle: The Main Principles of Ethical Jewelry 

Kim Larsen LLC was founded with one goal in mind: to create high-quality ethical jewelry that reflects my own commitment to sustainable practices. My process is unique, and aims to put nature at the very center of everything I do. 

Using Materials Found in Nature 

I have always tried to find the visceral intersection of nature and jewelry, and spending time outdoors is a crucial part of this. Those who follow me on Instagram will know that I find inspiration in the complexity of nature, and integrate parts of it in my designs whenever I can. 

“The final product shouldn’t be so far removed from nature. Natural materials are an integral part of my process. I use vines, twigs, leaves, bark, fungi, and seeds as components for my earrings, necklaces, brooches and rings. This means every piece in my Earth Collection is truly unique. I am also experimenting with tiny gemstones and adding them to the surface of polished agate rocks. Almost like the stars in the sky! ”

Reusing Objects and Materials 

While this practice started out as a sustainability consideration, it has quickly become one of my calling cards. My collection is made from recycled components such as metals, stones, pearls and beads. It also features objects found on my travels. Pocket watches, buttons, badges, charms, coins and fossils have found their way to my workbench, and into my pieces.  

What about shipping? Reducing the amount of packaging used should also be a key consideration for companies everywhere. After purchasing an item from me, you are likely to receive it wrapped in reused tissue, a reused box, plastic container or bag. 

Ethical Jewelry Made Simple 

Evaluating the impact of every single purchase we make on the communities that source and manufacture its raw materials is pretty much impossible. However, becoming a more conscientious buyer is not. All it requires is a commitment to choosing products that cause as little harm as possible to the planet and its inhabitants.  

There are ways to do so without spending hours on research. My top tip: don't be afraid to ask questions. Your jewelry maker should be able to tell you where they source their materials from, the certifications they hold and their vision for a sustainable future. Get to know them, and the jewelry they create: each piece should have a unique story to tell. 

Make sure you check out my designs, subscribe to my newsletter to find out more about the events I will be attending around the country this year. Would you like to discuss sustainable jewelry practices? Don’t hesitate to contact me at info@kimlarsennyc.com to learn more about my design process.