Working to source all of our materials in the most ethical and sustainable way possible means we are constantly reassessing where we get our metals and gems. It is no secret that any resource extraction done on a mass scale is nearly impossible to be done without negative impacts. Recently we have learned more about gold mining specifically, and it is becoming more and more apparent that the morals and ethics behind gold mining are easily avoided and bent. Especially in the market of “eco-friendly” gold. Currently, all of our metals are 100% recycled. But we have found that much of this metal is recently-mined, and refined multiple times at the beginning of the supply chain to meet the recycled criteria, and came at extreme cost to the environment and the people who extracted it. So we have begun the research and transition into a different approach to our sourcing. We know that now more than ever, it is important to source gold from reputable sources that use something called fair-mined gold.
What is fair-mined gold?
Fair-mined gold has received certification that it was mined in an ethical and sustainable manner from small, reputable mining organizations. It is a revolutionary movement that is making a change for the greater good of the miners and the environment and ensures that the gold you purchase is making a positive impact on the world.
Why should you as a consumer care?
Unfortunately, when performed in an unethical manner, gold mining can be extremely destructive and dangerous . Gold Mining causes community displacement, leads to contaminated drinking water, environmental and ecosystem destruction, and more. Making the conscious decision to buy gold from a reputable source that uses fair-mined gold can quite literally help change the world.
What positive impacts does fair-mined gold have?
Fair-mined gold has positive economic, environmental, labor, and social benefits. It ensures and prioritizes the livelihood and well-being of miners as well as their families and communities. Fair-mined gold also helps to mitigate the negative environmental impact of gold mining, thus, reducing irreparable damage and social impacts. Additionally, fair-mined gold contributes to job creation and economic development.
Where to find fair-mined gold?
At W.R. Metalarts, we are making the transition to fair-mined gold because to us, it’s a no-brainer. And starting today any of our pieces can be made in fair-mined gold! Creating jewelry does not only mean crafting designs with love but ensuring that the jewelry we create is a reflection of who we are and what our values are. We use gems and gold that are sustainably and ethically sourced. Because jewelry should be beautiful inside and out.
You can learn more about fair-mined gold here!
Be the change by intentionally opting for fair-mined gold for your project and be part of the movement to change this ancient industry!