One of the things I struggle with is how to balance my love of fashion with my desire to be a socially and environmentally responsible shopper. I eschew fast fashion, choose more sustainable fabrics, but I struggle with my sustainable jewelry options. I recently went looking for more ethical jewelry choices and decided to share what I found.

Choosing to shop for ethical jewelry combines concerns about: the environmental impacts of mining and processing, the working conditions for mine workers, contributing to dictatorial regimes, the corporate monopoly of resources, the lack of economic development in mining areas, and more. No matter what your particular concern is, it is difficult to avoid the reality that jewelry creation can come at a high cost to the planet and the beings that inhabit it.

There are more ethical jewelry options out there options. Many jewelers wanting to have less of of an impact on the environment and in contributing to the conditions of peoples in mining areas, and realizing that there is a demand from consumers, have started using more ethical jewelry sourcing of raw materials. Ethical Metalsmiths is a group of jewelers who have organized and are committed to encouraging more ethical jewelry production and to educate consumers. In addition, there are campaigns to raise the profile of issues surrounding ethical jewelry, like Earthwork’s “No Dirty Gold” campaign and the Global Witness campaign to stop Conflict Diamonds.

Here is a list of amazing jewelry companies who offer more ethical jewelry options. From using recycled metals and gemstones to repurposing vintage jewelry, these jewelers have a commitment to offering lower impact jewelry choices, so consider their goods the next time you want to add a piece to your collection or you need to purchase a gift.

17 Ethical Jewelry Companies for Responsible Jewelry Shopping

1. East Fourth Street
2. Rose and Fitzgerald
3. Smart Glass Jewelry
4. Brilliant Earth
5. Alexis Russell
6. Anna Fine Jewellery
7. Honey Rosenk
8. Andrea Bonelli
9. VKeco Jewelry
10. Bario-Neal
11. Cred Jewellery
12. Nightfox Jewelry
13. Valkasinskas
14. Kara Daniel Jewelry
15. Rebecca Mir Grady
16. April Doubleday
17. Amalena

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15 Ridiculous Easy DIY Repurposed Jewelry Storage Ideas

Image: Alexis Russell

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When celebrating a commitment large or small, shouldn’t the symbol of that sentiment come from a company just as committed as you are to conscious choices? If you haven’t discovered them yet, Turtle Love Co., an online retailer of handmade artisan designer jewelry, should be first on your list for jewelry you can feel thrilled about. Based in Portland, Maine, this eco-friendly, people-friendly brand is the brainchild of Adrianne Zahner and was founded in 2009. Zahner brings together talented designers to offer unique engagement rings, fine jewelry, and everyday pieces handcrafted with care and a commitment to the planet.

We talk a lot about the challenges of eco fashion production and marketing here at EcoSalon. The truth is that it’s not enough just to be green – a brand that develops a following must not only be green, but better than the competition that isn’t green. It’s not every day that a values-driven business can deliver products, service and an experience that stand out on their own merits. It’s a tall order and the people who pull it off inspire us – and deserve success. Just take a look at Turtle Love’s customer review page. The love for product, planet and people is so evident. Turtle Love Co.’s mission is a simple one, Zahner says: they want to thrill you. Count us in.

Here are a few of our current favorites.

I love how modern and strong this simple diamond engagement ring is. $3,300.

This Silver Equinox Moon Necklace is just what Santa wants to get for me, I can tell. $170 (Turtle Love Co. does engagements right, but they also feature a large assortment of pendant necklaces, which are so perfect for every day mixing and matching.)

Delicate Nest Diamond Stud Earrings (also in silver) are also at the top of Santa’s list for this editor. $475

You can also check out the new, exclusive collections by designers Michele Scholnick, Laura Serrafero and Adel Chefridi (something tells me those stacking rings won’t last long). Even the packaging is mindfully made!

We’ve all heard of “conflict diamonds,” but the importance of staying away from the Macy’s jewelry counter can’t be emphasized enough. A gift of jewelry is special, and the piece should be sourced, produced and sold in the spirit of what the piece represents: an honoring and a commitment to a special person (even if it’s you!). That’s love.

Editor’s note: Turtle Love is a proud sponsor of EcoSalon. We feel great about sharing their earth-friendly, people-friendly products and story with you, and would love to hear your feedback. We rarely publish sponsored posts, so when we do, you can be assured it’s a brand we believe in and think you’ll love, too. (And we will always tell you.) Feel free to drop us a line at contact at ecosalon dot com or leave a comment sharing your thoughts.

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