In an era where overconsumption drives us to buy jewelry in large quantities but of lower quality, craftsmanship, authenticity and especially the durability of the materials used to make handmade jewelry are becoming increasingly attractive. In a previous article, we looked at which eco-responsible materials to choose when buying clothes and shoes. But what about jewelry? Meanwhile Boutique presents a top of sustainable and responsible materials for your handmade jewelry.
But before getting down to business, let's go back to one point. So-called sustainable and responsible materials should be preferred over materials (like cheap ones) used for costume jewelry for several reasons:
💎 Quality: resistant materials that do not tarnish
⏳ Durability: materials that last for several years and resist scratches
🌿 Respect for the environment : manufacturing conditions that respect the planet
🤚🏼 Craftsmanship: handmade jewelry made using traditional know-how
1 - Sustainable and responsible materials: Recycled gold
Recycled gold is gold from used products or waste containing gold, such as old jewelry or electronic components. Recycling gold helps to limit the environmental and social impact caused by its mining extraction.
Contrary to what one might think, recycled gold is as pure, if not purer, than extracted gold. Gold is a very resistant material that does not tarnish. A handmade piece of jewelry in recycled gold can therefore last for years. Finally, gold is hypoallergenic, which greatly limits allergic reactions.
2 - Sustainable and responsible materials: Recycled silver
Just like gold, recycled silver does not come from mining extraction but from used components such as old jewelry, silverware, industrial waste, or coins. Its environmental and social impacts are thus reduced.
The purity of silver is not altered by recycling: a handmade piece of jewelry in recycled silver therefore has the same quality as one in traditional silver.
Recycled silver also has an attractive price. Beyond the environmental advantage, it offers a real economic added value.
3 - Sustainable and responsible materials: Natural stones
To add color to your outfits, jewelry with semi-precious natural stones is a real asset. Natural elements shaped by the Earth for millennia, stones each have their own energy and identity.
However, be careful about extraction conditions, which are sometimes unethical. Choose certified stones with impeccable traceability as well as reclaimed stones.
4 - Sustainable and responsible materials: Alloys
Most materials used in jewelry making are difficult to work with in their pure state. This is why different alloys are used to improve flexibility and workability in the making of handmade jewelry.
Recycled brass
Brass is an alloy composed mainly of copper and zinc, offering excellent resistance to wear.
Recycling brass helps limit mining extraction and considerably reduce its environmental impact.
Thanks to its wear resistance, recycled brass retains its shine and oxidizes little. Recycled brass is also an interesting alternative to gold, lighter and more affordable.
Stainless steel
Steel is an alloy composed mainly of iron and a small percentage of carbon.
Stainless steel is highly appreciated in jewelry for its affordable price, its water resistance, wear and scratch resistance. It does not tarnish, is lightweight and hypoallergenic, which makes it suitable for everyone.
5 - Sustainable and responsible materials: Natural materials like wood
Original materials like wood are emerging on the handmade jewelry market. Its varied shades and natural patterns bring an authentic and innovative touch.
Lightweight and comfortable, wood is an interesting alternative to metals and stones. However, be sure to choose wood from sustainably managed forests to limit the environmental impact.
6 - Sustainable and responsible materials: Ceramic
Handmade ceramic jewelry comes from ancestral know-how, working with natural raw materials such as clay.
Designed mostly by hand, ceramic jewelry offers excellent resistance and a great diversity of textures and finishes, opening up an almost infinite field of creation.
7 - Sustainable and responsible materials: Glass
Glass is mainly used for the manufacture of beads. Of natural origin and infinitely recyclable, it offers a unique shine thanks to its ability to reflect light.
Its main limitation remains its fragility. Therefore, choose recycled glass to reduce the environmental impact.
8 - Sustainable and responsible materials: Vegan materials like grape
A vegan handmade piece of jewelry contains no material of animal origin and is not subjected to any animal testing. It is therefore ethical, sustainable and cruelty-free.
Grape leather, made from grape pomace, allows the creation of a unique handmade piece of jewelry with an original look.
9 - Sustainable and responsible materials: Valued waste – upcycling
Upcycling consists of revaluing existing materials to give them a new life. A upcycled handmade piece of jewelry is therefore unique, eco-responsible and meaningful.
What if your next purchase was more than just a piece of jewelry? Every handmade piece of jewelry tells a story, that of sustainable materials and conscious consumption choices.
Article written by Camille Quéval
Sources:
https://aupiho.com/quest-ce-que-lor-recycle-et-quels-en-sont-les-avantages
https://lajunglebijoux.com/pourquoi-porter-bijoux-pierre-naturelle/
