The jewellery industry on a global level has always been dicey territory when it comes to ethics and sustainability. Navigating the landscape as someone who wants to prioritise the safety of others and the planet has, in the past been somewhat of a challenging task to set oneself, thankfully, this reality is something many people are moving passed and with emerging local and global jewellery designers who are putting sustainability as their first priority, finding forever pieces that won't compromise on ethics is becoming easier than ever. Below, we're rounding up our favourite sustainable jewellery brands thus far.
Sarah & Sebastian
Another locally iconic name, Sarah & Sebastian have long been pioneers of their craft and sustainable value-set. Their ultra-fine, luxury jewellery is entirely made to order in small quantities, meaning there is zero to no waste in the making process. By working with reputable suppliers who uphold the same ethical values as the brand, Sarah & Sebastian work primarily with local suppliers who ensure maximum transparency and compliance with Responsible Jewellery Council (RJC) as meeting the ethical, human rights, social and environmental standards as established by the RJC’s Certification System.
Natalie Marie Jewellery
Another respected player in the sustainable fine jewellery field is Natalie Marie. With an offering of bespoke and made to order fine pieces, NMJ works with trusted suppliers to ensure quality and sustainability in every piece and has forged strong relationships with these suppliers to continue supporting like-minded businesses. NMJ offers an extensive range of luxury pieces spanning necklaces, earrings, rings, engagement, bracelets and even personalised pieces.
Mejuri
Mejuri, the accessible fine jewellery brand taking the internet by storm, has strongly implemented practices to ensure as little impact on the planet as possible with an entire production ecosystem—including sourcing, manufacturing, and branding—aiming to mitigate their impact on the environment. Mejuri supports and empowers their partners, and gives back to communities. You can read more about their sustainability practices via their website.
Sofia Maria
Sustainable artisan jeweller Sofia Maria's line of fine jewellery is inspired by organic lines, natural textures and imperfect forms. All pieces are locally handmade by Maria herself in Sydney, each piece is made from 100% recycled metals whenever possible, and materials are locally sourced and recycled in Australia. The brand embodies the Japanese philosophy of wabi-sabi and celebrates the imperfect, impermanent, and incomplete.
Alighieri
A personal favourite of mine and the ultimate heirloom jewellery brand, UK based Alighieri uses entirely recycled bronze and silver before plating and casting with gold. The result is heavy, sentimental pieces that transcend time and trends. Vibrant, chunky gold chains are adorned with rough, wabi-sabi style charms and pearls, promoting simultaneous feelings of decadence and grounding.
Holly Ryan
A namesake in her local field and a RUSSH community favourite, eponymous founder of the brand Holly Ryan has instilled sustainable and ethical practices from day dot. Solid gold pendants, rings and earrings are often adorned with freshwater pearls, rough stones or zodiac signs and are handmade made locally in Sydney. Sustainability is priority for Ryan with her low waste practices and closed-loop recycling initiative.
image credits: @hollyryanjewellery, @alighieri_jewellery, @sarahandsebastian, @nataliemariejewellery, @sofiamaria.co
