Environmental jewellery: Sustainable and eco-friendly choices for conscious shoppers

As sustainability becomes more important in every aspect of our lives, the jewellery industry is also evolving. Environmental jewellery focuses on using ethical materials, reducing waste, and minimizing environmental impact. Whether you’re looking for a statement piece or an everyday accessory, choosing eco-friendly jewellery is a way to support both craftsmanship and the planet. Here’s what to look for in environmental jewellery and some of the best brands making a positive impact.

1. Recycled metals: Giving new life to old materials

Many sustainable jewellery brands use recycled metals like gold, silver, and platinum to create their pieces. Recycling metals helps reduce the demand for new mining, which is often harmful to the environment. By reusing existing metals, brands can create beautiful jewellery without causing additional environmental damage.

• Tip: Look for brands that explicitly mention the use of certified recycled metals in their products.
• Best options: Catbird, Bario Neal, AUrate

2. Ethically sourced gemstones: Conflict-free and fair trade

Gemstone mining can have severe environmental and ethical consequences, particularly in regions where labor conditions are poor. Ethical jewellery brands prioritize conflict-free gemstones and work with suppliers that ensure fair labor practices and environmentally responsible mining methods.

• Tip: Choose brands that use certified conflict-free diamonds, fair trade gemstones, or even lab-grown diamonds and gemstones, which have a much lower environmental impact.
• Best options: Brilliant Earth, MiaDonna, Vrai

3. Lab-grown diamonds: The sustainable alternative

Lab-grown diamonds are becoming a popular alternative to traditional mined diamonds. These diamonds are created in a controlled environment and have the same physical and chemical properties as natural diamonds. However, they don’t come with the environmental and ethical concerns associated with traditional mining.

• Tip: Opt for lab-grown diamonds if you want the brilliance of a diamond without the environmental impact of mining.
• Best options: Vrai, Clean Origin, Lightbox Jewelry

4. Upcycled jewellery: Reducing waste and promoting creativity

Upcycled jewellery is made by reusing or repurposing existing materials, such as old jewellery pieces, metal scraps, or vintage finds. This approach helps reduce waste and gives new life to materials that would otherwise be discarded. Upcycled jewellery is often unique, creative, and one-of-a-kind.

• Tip: Look for brands or local artisans that specialize in upcycling materials to create stunning, sustainable jewellery pieces.
• Best options: Soko, L.Greenwalt Jewellery, Article22

5. Fair trade certification: Ensuring ethical production

Fair trade jewellery ensures that artisans and workers are paid fair wages and work in safe conditions. It also focuses on environmentally friendly production practices. Fair trade certified jewellery is often handcrafted, supporting small communities and preserving traditional craftsmanship techniques.

• Tip: Look for the Fair Trade Certified™ label when shopping for jewellery to ensure that your purchase supports ethical practices.
• Best options: Made Trade, Soko, Fairtrade Gold

6. Vegan and cruelty-free jewellery: Animal-free alternatives

Vegan jewellery avoids the use of animal-derived materials, such as leather, pearls, or coral. Instead, these pieces are made from metals, synthetic gems, or plant-based materials. Choosing vegan jewellery helps reduce harm to animals and the environment.

• Tip: If you’re committed to a vegan lifestyle, seek out jewellery brands that promote cruelty-free and animal-free alternatives.
• Best options: Wild Fawn, Wills Vegan Store, Nature Bijoux

7. Sustainable packaging: Minimizing waste

Sustainability isn’t just about the jewellery itself; it also extends to packaging. Many eco-conscious jewellery brands use recycled, biodegradable, or minimal packaging to reduce waste. Look for companies that prioritize sustainable packaging options as part of their commitment to the environment.

• Tip: Opt for brands that use eco-friendly packaging materials like recycled cardboard, biodegradable wrapping, or reusable jewellery pouches.
• Best options: Monique Péan, Pippa Small, Edge of Ember

8. Supporting small and local jewellers

By purchasing from small or local jewellery makers, you can help reduce the environmental impact associated with mass production and long-distance shipping. Many small jewellers focus on sustainability, using eco-friendly materials and creating handcrafted, high-quality pieces that last.

• Tip: Shop local when possible and support independent jewellers who prioritize ethical practices and sustainability.
• Best options: Melissa Joy Manning, Washed Ashore, Edge of Ember

Final thoughts

Environmental jewellery is about more than just aesthetics—it’s about making thoughtful, ethical choices that benefit both people and the planet. Whether it’s choosing recycled metals, lab-grown diamonds, or supporting small artisans, sustainable jewellery allows you to express your style while aligning with your values. By investing in eco-friendly and ethically made jewellery, you can enjoy beautiful pieces that are as good for the environment as they are for your wardrobe.