5 Ways to Shop for Sustainable jewelry

Picture of Chioma
Girl wearing a golden ring

Sustainable jewelry is a term used to describe jewelry made from materials that are responsibly sourced, produced, and disposed of. The materials used in sustainable jewelry are eco-friendly and socially responsible, including recycled metals, conflict-free diamonds, and ethically sourced gemstones. Sustainable jewelry brands are dedicated to reducing their environmental footprint and giving back to their communities.

 

In this blog, we’ll help you understand what sustainable jewelry is and give you five ways to shop for it. You can minimize your environmental impact and support businesses that are committed to social responsibility by choosing sustainable materials, investing in quality pieces, researching brands, shopping secondhand, and considering rental options. With the help of Faircado, shopping sustainably has never been easier. Invest in sustainable jewelry and you’ll be helping the planet.

 

golden earings
Photo by Nati Melnychuk

What is sustainable jewelry?

Sustainable jewelry is all about quality over quantity. Sustainable jewelry is pieces that are well-made, durable, and timeless. The materials used in sustainable jewelry are eco-friendly and socially responsible. These materials can include recycled metals, conflict-free diamonds, and ethically sourced gemstones. Wood, recycled glass, and even plant-based materials such as bamboo are also used by some jewelry brands.

Identifying brands with a positive impact is another important aspect of sustainable jewelry. Many sustainable jewelry brands are dedicated to reducing their environmental footprint and giving back to their communities. Some brands even have ethical jewelry certifications, such as Fairtrade Gold, which ensures that the gold used in the jewelry is mined in a responsible and sustainable way.

Now that we’ve defined sustainable jewelry, here are five ways to shop for it:

 

1. Look for sustainable materials

The materials utilized are essential for sustainable jewelry. Seek eco-friendly and socially conscious materials, such as recycled metals, lab-grown diamonds, and gemstones that were mined with integrity. These materials are environmentally friendly and do not contribute to social injustices or exploitation. Aside from wood, bamboo, and recycled glass, alternative materials like wood make excellent sustainable jewelry options. Not only are they eco-friendly, but they also add a unique touch to your accessories. By choosing jewelry made from sustainable materials, you are supporting businesses that prioritize sustainability and social responsibility. Remember to do your research and make informed decisions when shopping for sustainable jewelry.

quirky colorful jewelry
Photo by Pavel Pjatakov

 

 

2. Choose quality over quantity

When shopping for sustainable jewelry, it’s important to focus on investing in high-quality pieces that will last a lifetime. By choosing well-made, durable, and timeless jewelry, you can reduce your environmental impact and save money in the long run. When you invest in quality over quantity, you’re more likely to wear your jewelry for years to come, reducing the need for constant replacements. This not only saves money but also reduces the amount of waste produced. By choosing to invest in high-quality, sustainable jewelry, you can make a positive impact on the environment while also enjoying beautiful, timeless accessories that you’ll love for years to come.

 

3. Shop second-hand

Shopping second-hand has to be the most sustainable way to shop for jewelry. It is not only environmentally friendly to purchase pre-loved items, but it is also an enjoyable way to give old jewelry a new lease on life. You can find second-hand jewelry at thrift stores, online marketplaces, and consignment shops. A simple way to shop second-hand is by downloading this browser extension. It shows you second-hand options for your online shopping searches, so you can feel like a sustainable shopping champion without breaking a sweat.

This is a great way to find unique and one-of-a-kind pieces while also being environmentally conscious. 

 

4. Research brands

Charles F. Kettering once said that “research means that you don’t know, but are willing to find out.” Before making a purchase, research the brand and ensure that they are committed to sustainability and social responsibility. Look for brands that prioritize sustainability by using eco-friendly and sustainable materials, have ethical certifications, and are transparent about their production process. Doing your research can help you make informed decisions about the brands you support, and ensure that your purchases align with your values. From today henceforth, support sustainable and socially responsible brands, and you create a more sustainable and ethical fashion industry.

 

5. Consider renting

If you only need jewelry for a special occasion, renting can be a sustainable alternative to buying. Many companies now offer jewelry rental services, which allow you to wear beautiful, sustainable pieces without the commitment of owning them. For jewelry lovers who want to make a statement without adding to their collection or contributing to waste, renting is a great option. Rentals also allow you to try out different styles and designs without committing to a purchase. This is a smart and eco-friendly option that can help you reduce your environmental impact while still enjoying beautiful jewelry.

It’s important to do your research before purchasing jewelry. Here are some sustainable jewelry brands from around the world to get you started:

 

Vrai (USA)

Mejuri (Canada)

Pippa Small (UK)

Catbird (USA)

SOKO (Kenya)

Hiptipico (Guatemala)

Stone and Strand (USA)

 

 

Conclusion

To conclude, shopping for sustainable jewelry is a great way to be environmentally conscious and support ethical businesses. By investing in high-quality, eco-friendly pieces, you can ensure that your jewelry will last for years to come. It’s important to research the materials used in your jewelry and to choose brands that are dedicated to reducing their environmental impact and supporting their communities. Additionally, shopping second-hand or considering rental options is a great way to reduce waste and support sustainable fashion.

Faircado is an excellent tool to help you shop sustainably. By automatically looking for the best second-hand or refurbished alternative when you shop online, Faircado makes sustainable shopping easy and convenient. It’s important to make a conscious effort to shop for sustainable jewelry and make a positive impact on the environment and society. By taking these steps, you can feel good about your purchases and help make the world a better place.

For more tips and tricks on how to live a more sustainable life, check out our magazine.