NO. 1
A WHOLE PROBLEM
We are quick to notice the gleam and sparkle of jewellery that comes in a velvet box and is worn by beautiful models, but we ignore the fact that the jewellery industry is riddled with poor ethics and sustainability. While it is a growing concern for buyers, most people do not include discussions of mining and modern‑day slavery in their proposal, anniversary or birthday celebrations. If you think spending your money on cheap “luxury” jewellery, won’t harm you, think again!
NO. 2
EXCESSIVE CONSUMPTION
Some luxury jewellery is timeless, but the vast majority is worn only a few times before being discarded. Fake gemstones do not biodegrade in landfills and end up releasing toxins into the air and water. According to a survey, more than 80% of consumers want conflict‑free jewellery.
NO. 3
COMPLEX SUPPLY CHAINS
Transparency in the jewellery industry is extremely difficult to achieve. Raw materials are frequently mined in one country, processed in another and then transformed into jewellery in yet another. Corruption is also a factor in many aspects of the jewellery supply chain. Sadly many brands and consumers have no way of knowing where the raw materials came from.
NO. 4
ECONOMIC GROWTH PARADIGM
Who wants to close their doors after selling only one diamond ring? Diamonds, according to the De Beers company, "were synonymous with romance, and the size and quality of the diamond would show the measure of a man's love." This advertising campaign influenced our perceptions of jewellery, with diamonds being a reward for a “hard‑working woman”
NO. 5
ENVIRONMENTAL CONCERNS
Mining has its own set of issues with thousands of local animal and plant species dead as a result of mining accidents, and soils are deteriorating. For every 1 carat of diamonds produced, approximately 57kg of greenhouse gas emissions are released into the atmosphere. 
NO. 6
SOCIAL CONCERNS
A million children are estimated to work in small‑scale mining operations. Diamond and precious metal mining have been linked to a number of violent armed groups all over the world. Child labour is dangerous, and it is still prevalent in many countries today.
NO. 7
WHAT YOU SHOULD LOOK OUT FOR?
Save up to buy a piece of jewellery that corresponds to your social and environmental values. An eco‑friendly and ethical engagement ring could be just the ticket. Both your wallet and the environment will thank you for buying ethical and sustainable pieces of clothing, accessories and jewellery.
NO. 8
MOST SUSTAINABLE AS POSSIBLE
Unfortunately, there are no set standards for jewellery sustainability, and manufacturers and retailers use it haphazardly. Some jewellers will use recycled or waste materials, or show how they are reducing emissions or protecting the environment. So much can be recycled even your tiny offcuts! However, if it is more profitable to buy new rather than recycle, most brands will dump their leftovers in landfills, restarting the waste cycle! They want to benefit from it now rather than in the long run.
NO. 9
LOOK FOR BRANDS WITH A POSITIVE IMPACT
As consumers, we can help our environment by supporting brands that give back to the earth, plant trees, help prevent water and air pollution and so much more. It's critical to understand that sustainable and ethical jewellery has the power to change people's lives in some parts of the world. Imagine how much more your earrings will gleam when they're linked to stories like this.
NO. 10
BE AWARE OF GREENWASHING
The line between sustainable and sellable jewellery is, like any other eco‑friendly product, hazy. A brand may use sustainable materials but engage in hazardous workplace practices and pay their employees nothing. This is both unsustainable and unethical. Ask questions, conduct your own research, and take action if you are truly passionate about bling that is free of social and environmental costs.
NO. 11
GET INSPIRED AND TAKE ACTION
More consumers who are unwilling to turn a blind eye to environmental and social injustices are needed in the world. So many more people want to live sustainably, but it can be difficult at times due to the high price tag on sustainable products so …
WHY US? YALLAMBE?
All of our jewels are made ONLY from recycled, ethical and sustainable materials! The highest quality materials are made from 100% fair trade materials, including recycling materials. This not only reduces the consumption of new materials but also minimises pollutants in the air and water. Recycling also minimises the requirement for new raw materials to be made. Yallambe was founded so that people might enjoy sustainable jewellery handcrafted by me at an affordable price!
