Fair Trade Jewellery
Seeking to marry ethics and aesthetics
In spite of the
short-term economic benefits it may bring, the mining and processing of
precious metals and gems is hazardous for workers and communities alike, and
can often devastate important ecosystems. Yet boycotting the use of mined
minerals would deprive literally millions of artisanal miners and gem
manufacturers of desperately needed livelihoods. At CRED, we use our demand for
minerals to help improve the livelihoods and protect the environments of the
people whose lives are affected by our business activities.As the pioneers of Fair Trade practices in this industry, we have constantly sought partners who reflect our values and who can help us achieve our dream of 100% independently certified Fair Trade jewellery.
Our Fair Trade policy is founded on principles of transparency and traceability. We have to know where our materials come from and all the hands they pass through from source to shop. Where we can, we work with small-scale artisanal miners, often marginalised and exploited by the bigger producers, and seek relationships that benefit entire communities. It’s a work in progress: we have found a source of Fair Trade gold and platinum; we are continually searching for suitable sources for the rest.
Our approach is currently threefold:
Precious Metals
We are proud to partner with Oro Verde™, producers of the finest Fair Trade Gold and Platinum. We wish all miners were as skilled and as socially and environmentally responsible as this Columbian collective.
A source of fairly traded, environmentally responsible silver is not possible at present. We’re looking to change that, but until then we will use only 100% Recycled Silver.
Diamonds
All our diamonds are of the highest quality, of exceptional cut, colour and clarity. They are all certified under the Kimberly Process, guaranteeing them as conflict-free.
At present there are no sources of diamond that are independently certified as environmentally and socially responsible, so we are working on international partnerships that will lead towards a Fair Trade artisanal diamond and support small-scale miners while delivering sustainable economic justice. Until then we will source our diamonds from Canada and Australia, so that we can guarantee their origin.
Gemstones
We source beautiful gems of the most exceptional colour and clarity from all over the world. As with all our materials, we have to know as much as possible about the stones, their origin and impact, and to be able to visit the mine, should we wish.
As with diamonds there is no independent certification of Fair Trade gemstones at the moment. So we are raising awareness at an international level, and constantly seeking new relationships with like-minded producers and campaigners.
First and foremost we believe in honesty. We promise to tell you not only where our materials come from, but the ethical strengths and weaknesses of every component, so that you as a customer can make an informed choice. We know that we are not perfect, but as pioneers we are constantly striving for improvement.