Mother’s Day is fast approaching, as well as the wedding season, and we are yet again left searching for a perfect gift. Jewelry always seems to be a god choice but eco- and people-friendly jewelry probably is not easily available at your local store. So what can you do to get this amazing gift and stay environmentally friendly at the same time?
Well, there are a few choices, and here are some tips on shopping and what to look for:
- Pearls— be it cultured or farmed, these seem to be pretty eco-friendly, and they have been used to clean water and reduce heavy metal pollution. Way to go…!
- Look for recycled metals—gold, silver, platinum or titanium can be reused and made into brand new pieces of jewelry. Most jewelers should accept your old gold or silver pieces and use them to create a new one. Sometimes they even create unique designs, chosen specifically for a particular customer.
- Antique or vintage pieces—this type of jewelry is definitely your most ecological choice since no new materials need to be mined to create them.
- Buy from reputable retailers—when buying new gemstones or precious metals, make sure you do it through a retailer that can attest to their origins. Ask for a “Certificate of Origin”.
- Buy pre-owned jewelry or family heirlooms—you can find them in the vintage stores, antique shops or auction houses.
Ecologically friendly jewelry does not have to be expensive. An increasing number of jewelers are creating fashionable, extravagant or distinctive pieces that won’t cost you a fortune. All you have to do is simply make more conscious choices and perhaps ask questions from time to time…
Enjoy the hunt and hope you’ll find some amazing eco-friendly pieces where you least expect them.
