There has been a lot of talk recently about the environmentally and socially destructive practice of extracting precious gems and metals from the earth, in particular 'blood' diamonds.
The mining industry is by its very nature an ecological 'taker' and the pressure is coming on jewellery makers to deliver more eco-friendly choices for discerning jewellery consumers.
Green Karat is a jewellery company that is on a mission to help transform the jewellery industry into an ecologically responsible one. They say that while mining continues at a pace of 2,500 tons a year, 80% of which is used by the jewellery industry, plenty of gold is simply sitting idle: ''In fact, we estimate that there is enough gold above ground (already mined) to satisfy all demands of the jewellery industry for the next 50 years''.
Their fabulous jewellery, available in traditional designs as well as custom-made creations, is all made using recycled precious metals.
This way they can reduce the world's reliance on continually pulling new metals and jewels out of the earth by recycling what has already been extracted.
Gold is a very interesting commodity because it is so valuable that the gold industry already recycles every little scrap, but people continue to have some difficultly being able to find places to recycle their own post-consumer gold, or their old jewellery.
An exciting initiative that Green Karat offers is the myKarat® program which provides the opportunity for each of us to recycle our own pre-loved necklaces, bracelets, earrings and rings.
Green washing is a major global problem and it is important we know for sure that the products we are choosing to purchase are made using responsible practices.
The great thing about Green Karat is that they really do stand by their green claims and they are very aware of the importance of the supply chain, in regards to where and how the base material is sourced, how it is transported and then created and sold.
By choosing green jewellery from Green Karat you will help to drive a fundamental change in the jewellery industry.
To see Green Karat's full collection and pieces for sale, please visit GreenKarat.
Top Image Credit: © Copyright Green Carat