Ethics

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 General statement:

It's not perfect, but I'm working on it.

Being environmentally and ethically conscious is one trend that we really should all follow.

However as in day to day life, it is not always straightforward when it comes being 100% environmentally and ethically responsible.

For this reason I'd like to be honest with you about how I'm trying to make better choices for both my clients, myself and the planet.

Sourcing stones and metals from companies and organizations that follow these ethics is the best way to support the sector but it does come at a higher price.  Of course this will be passed on to the customer.

The long term plan is that if we increase demand, the market becomes more competitive and the prices come down.

The really good news is that there are many wonderful businesses around the globe and in the UK that are making these choices easier.   

And so it is my pledge to phase in using fairly sourced metals and stones.

I have taken the Fair Luxury pledge initiated by a co-operative of like minded jewellers and jewellery industry professionals and it is really exciting that I am now on this path as one of the inaugural 100 members of this conscientious pledge.

(You can read more about their work here: https://www.fairluxury.co.uk/)

The key areas to consider for those choosing to buy jewellery and those working in the industry are metals, stones, packaging and office supplies.    Below I discuss the issues faced in these areas and how I am working to make better choices where possible. 

Metals:

I am a licenced Fairmined brand and a Fairtrade goldsmith meaning that when I need to source new gold & silver for a design or commission I will be using Fairmined or Fairtrade metals.
In all other cases I will use recycled sterling silver and upcycled metals from clients existing pieces.  

Stones:

Often the stones I use in commissions are re-used from old styles.  

This is the best way to continue their legacy and to keep sentimental stones being worn and loved.

When sourcing the right stones for the job it is necessary to use a variety of suppliers, as many suppliers specialise in different areas, so where possible I choose those who say they follow the same principles and business practices that I am striving towards.

However, as stones are sourced from all around the world, including from very remote locations, it is difficult to always guarantee how they were sourced and the conditions at the mines, as I am not able to visit the mines and regions that they all come from.
This is true for the majority of jewellery businesses.

When I can be 100% sure that I know the source and how they have been processed then I will state this and let you know with certainty that they have been ethically sourced.

Packaging:

All my packaging is made from recycled and recyclable cardboard and paper.

Sadly the inserts and the foil branding are not as environmentally kind, but I am hoping to transition into fully planet friendly packaging on my next batch of boxes.

Office supplies:

Where possible I try to remain paperless for all admin, but where this is not an option, recycled and upcycled supplies are a must.

I am always looking for ways to improve so if you know of any interesting planet and people friendly initiatives then please do let me know. 

And remember...be kind and love the planet and it will love you back.

Hayley

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