Why FairTrade Matters in Jewellery.

Have you ever taken a moment to think about where the gold in your jewellery comes from?

Jewellery is often given to commemorate life’s most meaningful moments—engagements, weddings, anniversaries, personal milestones. But behind the sparkle, the story of how that gold or gemstone came to be in your piece of jewellery is often invisible. And too often, that story involves unfair labour, unsafe conditions, and environmental harm.

My personal investigation into the origins of the gold and gemstones in my jewellery making is what led me to make the decision to work exclusively with FairTrade materials—so that every piece I create doesn’t just look beautiful, but feels right too.

 What Is FairTrade in Jewellery?

FairTrade isn’t just for coffee or bananas—it applies to gold and too. Traditional mining, especially in less affluent regions, is often linked to child labour, exploitation, poverty wages, and toxic environmental practices. It's heartbreaking—and it's avoidable.

FairTrade-certified gold comes from small-scale mines where:

• Workers are paid fair wages and operate under safe working conditions.

• Mining techniques avoid harmful chemicals like mercury and cyanide.

• Communities benefit directly through investments in health, education, and infrastructure.

• There is complete traceability, so I know exactly where the metal came from.

It’s a more responsible and transparent way of doing business—and one I’m proud to stand behind.

Why I Choose FairTrade as a Maker

As a jewellery designer and maker based in Leipzig, I believe that beauty should never come at the cost of someone else's wellbeing.

When I first learned about the human and environmental costs of conventional mining, I couldn’t unsee it. It didn’t sit right with me to pour my heart into creating something meaningful and lasting—only for its materials to be tied to suffering.

That’s when I made the shift to using only FairTrade and responsibly sourced materials in my work. Every ring, necklace, or pair of earrings I design carries a story of care, craftsmanship, and consciousness. 

This transition to ethically source materials was not easy or straightforward. When I started on this journey FairTrade certified gold was not widely available, especially for small independent jewellers. Labels like 'recycled gold' were placed on materials with no real transparency about what that means. Recycled gold is NOT the same standard as FairTrade. The gold being recycled still comes from conventional mining. And it is also deceiving, because gold is always recycled - someone would never dispose of gold, no matter how small the amounts because it is far too valuable. I myself, 'recycle' gold in my work. Any scraps or cutoffs from projects are re-melted (often with 'new gold') to make new projects. The one big difference is that  the gold that I recycle is FairTrade to begin with. There is so much to say on the topic of recycled metals - I will have to do another blog post about that.

Thankfully, the market for FairTrade alternatives has grown in the past 10 years. I now am able to source FairTrade certified gold from an amazing company here in Leipzig called Fairever. The gold in their products come directly from the certified mines - ensuring the highest level of transparency. It is amazing companies like theirs that have helped to increase the accessibility of FairTrade raw materials.

What It Means for You

Choosing FairTrade jewellery isn’t just about ethics—it’s also about connection.

When you wear a piece made with FairTrade materials, you're wearing something that:

• Carries a positive impact—supporting miners, families, and communities.

• Comes with transparency—you know its origins.

• Tells a deeper story—making it even more meaningful for you or your loved one.

Many of my clients say their pieces feel more special knowing the care that went into every stage—not just the design, but the sourcing too.

How to Tell If Jewellery Is Truly FairTrade

Not all ethical claims are equal. If you want to make sure you're buying FairTrade or responsibly sourced jewellery, here are a few tips:

• Look for certifications. Ask about FairTrade Gold, recycled metals, or conflict-free stones.

• Ask questions. A transparent maker will be happy to share their sourcing process.

Whether you're buying from me or someone else—always feel empowered to ask. You deserve to know the story behind what you wear.

Jewellery That Tells a Better Story

I believe in jewellery with soul—pieces that honour both the person who wears them and the people who help create them. That’s why FairTrade isn’t a trend in my studio—it’s a commitment.

If you're looking for handcrafted, ethical jewellery with a story to tell—whether it's a bespoke engagement ring, a meaningful gift, or something just for you—I’d love to connect.

Let’s create something beautiful together, from the inside out!