Cover photo courtesy of Cartier.

We're always looking for ethical jewellery brands that are committed to conscious sourcing, fair wages, and meaningful community initiatives. Jewellery is an accessory to cherish for a lifetime, whether it's a thoughtful addition to our own wardrobe or a gift for our loved ones. Two of the latest buzzwords are ‘sustainable jewellery,' but what exactly does that mean? 

Jewellery is an important part of everyday style, and few people opt to do without it totally. It's an easy way to dress up an outfit and showcase some personality, whether you choose to keep it simple with a few classic pieces or enjoy stacking and layering more fashion-forward styles. This has never been more evident than in the age of video conferences and Zoom meetings, as more of us work from home—a gold chain quickly lifts a plain cardigan, while a set of earrings instantly polishes you up.

Of course, making sensible, sustainable buying decisions will always pay off in the long run—for both the environment and your wallet. With most people's minds on the environment these days, we've compiled a list of 6 of our favourite sustainable jewellery brands that are attentive and transparent in their sourcing and production process. 

Following the fashion sector's reassessment of environmental issues, sustainability and ethics, it's no surprise that Cartier is setting new quality standards in terms of sustainable jewellery creation—not only through the use of ethical gold, but also through the use of conflict-free diamonds. Cartier's yearly gold use is only 10 tonnes worldwide, with over 90% of that being recycled. Their diamond sourcing adheres to the Kimberly Process and the Council for Responsible Jewellery Practices' Code of Conduct. Since 2009, the jewellery powerhouse has been carbon neutral. Furthermore, the high quality of their creations ensures long-term use, while jewellery restoration is offered to extend the product life. 

Vashi prioritises sustainability; the company follows the Kimberley Process, which ensures that all diamonds are conflict-free and that all metal is 100% recyclable. The company takes a hands-on approach to design and production, working directly with diamond cutters to ensure the sustainability of their stones. Everything is made-to-order, ensuring that the brand never runs out of stock, and the business model is based on reducing waste and carbon emissions. Transparency is so important to this company that the workshop can be seen from the Covent Garden shop floor.

Laura Lombardi, a Brooklyn-based designer, designs simple jewellery that can be worn every day. Each piece is made by hand using a combination of new, repurposed, and reclaimed metals that she collects on her travels. Her brand has a devoted celebrity following, with Emma Watson and Tracee Ellis Ross among those who have worn her creations. She makes the majority of her pieces in New York, where she collaborates with a Brooklyn-based brass mill, and she is one of the few jewellery designers included on Net-a-Porter's Net Sustain section.

The objective of Edge of Ember is to produce timeless, fuss-free jewellery that can be worn every day, and are a little slice of inexpensive luxury. They believe that fashion should look and feel good, and as a result, Edge of Ember created their brand on the principles of ethical production and honest social responsibility. The team collaborates with artisan groups and small-scale manufacturers in Asia that are run ethically and employ skilled craftspeople.

The distinctive curved shapes and unique stone arrangements of Wwake's creations are immediately identifiable. Each piece of jewellery is made in New York from recycled and fair-mined gold, and conflict-free diamonds. Celebrities like Rihanna and Cate Blanchett have worn the label.

BaYou with Love is a lifestyle brand that focuses on ethical, sustainable fashion and manufacturing in the areas of jewellery, clothes, home, and beauty. Founded and run by actress and environmentalist Nikki Reed, the brand hand-crafts beautiful jewellery from recycled gold, including gold recovered from discarded electronics through their partnership with Dell. Their collections include everyday favourites, personalised jewellery, and magnificent bridal rings made with carbon-neutral farmed diamonds and consciously-selected stones.