Article written by Jen Cassamajor

We at Twin Flame are jewelry lovers. We love to change the vibe of an outfit by just adding a few accessories. We all know how a good pair of earrings can save the day, right ? If you too like to play with jewelry but still want to consume in a conscious way, you’ve come to the right place ! 

What’s wrong with the jewelry business ?

Before diving into today’s post, let’s look at the issues the jewelry business is facing when it comes to both sustainability and ethics. We tend to believe that as long as we spend quite a lot of money on jewelry it won’t do any harm. Well, it couldn’t be further from the truth. Most gemstones and raw materials used are fined in the world’s poorest region. The deplorable conditions in which local populations work constitutes a violation of human rights in most cases. The jewelry industry as it is today also massively damages the environment. The mining process implies air and water pollution and induces a loss of biodiversity, not to mention massive carbon emissions caused by mass production.

This is why certain brands have decided to tackle this issue and offer sustainably and ethically-made jewelry. They ensure fair work conditions throughout the production and lessen their impact on the environment. Discover our selection :

OUVERTURE Berlin

Designed in Berlin, OUVERTURE is the perfect illustration of modern luxury. The pieces - made of 14K solid gold, GH/VS diamonds and other precious stones - are handcrafted in a small atelier in Armenia by jewelers with over 25 years of experience. With many designs exclusively available for pre-orders, the brand operates under a zero waste principle and has committed to 100% recycled gold by 2023.

Our favorite pieces : the Pear Diamond Earcuff and the Mini Diamond Huggie.

@carolapojer

@ouvertureberlin

CLED

CLED - derived from the word cycle(d) - is a Los Angeles-based upcycled jewelry brand. Each piece is handmade using discarded resources and free from plastics, mined gemstones and animal materials. Through its modern pieces with bold accents, the brands conveys the message that waste can actually turn into beauty!

Our favorite pieces : The Scupltural Small Charm Necklaces and the Wave Rings.

@shhtephs

@cled

Monica Vinader

The London-based designer Monica Vinader has taken on a mission : creating confidence-boosting pieces of jewelry while still being conscious and have a minimal environmental impact. The pieces are handcrafted in 100% recycled gold and sterling silver with conflict-free diamonds and natural gemstones.

Our favorite pieces : The Alta Chain Necklace Set and the Siren Muse Mini Huggie Earrings.

@brunabear

@therealdarrengraham

Otiumberg

Otiumberg was founded in 2016 by sisters Rosanna and Christie Wollenberg. Their approach to everyday jewelry - a combination of adaptability, accessibility and originality - came to define the demi-fine movement. Their designs prove once more that elegance and sustainability do make a great match. All metals come from recycled sources and the brand works with factories recognized by the Responsible Jewellery Council.

Our favorite pieces : The Small Pavé Staple Hoop and the Link Up Chain.

@laura.fantacci

@otiumberg

Alighieri

Alighieri is not your typical jewelry brand. Founder Rosh Mahtani draws inspiration from the Italian poet Dante Alighieri to create modern heirlooms in the making, aimed to be worn as talismans of bravery, courage and inspiration. All the pieces are made from recycled metals at the brand’s studio in London.

Our favorite pieces : The Abundant Dream Ring and the La Calliope Choker.

@monikh

@alighieri_jewellery

Next up to read: 5 Sustainable Swimwear Brands To Pack With You This Summer