Jewelry Joins the Ranks of Hybrids and Toms Shoes
August 29th, 2010
From the demand of active consumers, more and more products are hitting shelves that boast an Eco-friendly or ethically-conscious label. People have come to expect fair trade food products like coffee in their kitchen and clothing items like toms shoes in their closets. It's even a sign of prestige to be seen cruising around in a little hybrid instead of a large SUV. While at one time earth-friendly products were exceptions, it's no longer difficult to find any item in a "green" version. This holds true for jewelry. With fair trade jewelry, people can look flashy and be carefree.
Fair trade jewelry is closely monitored from beginning to end; from mining to the cutting process. Agreements are made between sellers and manufacturers to ensure a limited environmental footprint and the generous treatment of workers. Each piece of jewelry comes with documentation of its origins. Mines are run by locals with an emphasis on protecting the environment while ensuring the safety of its workers. These mines are much smaller in scale and are restored to their natural state.
And fair trade is highly fashionable. Just because it is processed differently doesn't mean that the style of your favorite accessory has changed. Lines range from your classic diamond with silver band to handmade necklaces of gold pendants. The popular retailer Anthropologie for instance, features a great collection of fair trade jewelry in their catalog known as their Andean Collection. Each piece is made from artisans in the country of its origin, unlike most replicas that flood retailers. And the prices are fair too!
What really makes fair trade jewelry so stunning is its beautiful natural quality. Because of its strict production the gems are not artificially processed. The shine and the color are all real. It's a naturally beautiful product that you won't ever have to feel guilty about wearing.