The jewelry industry's sustainability revolution took off during the pandemic, sparking a movement towards greater environmental, social, and governance (ESG) awareness. But for some companies, the mission started long before. "JNA Asia Jewelry" explores the inspiring sustainable practices of two pioneering jewelry manufacturers.
Jewelarc International: Green Vision and Beyond
Jewelarc International Ltd, founded in 2000, began its sustainability journey in 2018—years before the pandemic. Known for exquisite jewelry like the 600-carat tanzanite Thalassa necklace and aquamarine pieces from a women-run mine, Jewelarc embraces eco-friendly values at every step.
Executive Director Matthew Triglone shares, "Sustainability was a natural move for us—it's the cornerstone of our company." Jewelarc’s plant is plastic-free, with compostable packaging that biodegrades in 8 to 12 weeks. The company only uses responsibly sourced gold from Mali, which is mercury-free and fully traceable.
Unlike many other producers, Jewelarc refuses to use recycled gold, wary of unethical origins. Instead, they focus on single-origin materials, ensuring full traceability and ethical sourcing.
Fine Jewelry: A Commitment to Change
Indian jewelry manufacturer Fine has been committed to sustainability since the pandemic, when it decided to go green in a big way. By switching to renewable energy, using recycled metals, and supporting carbon sink and tree planting projects, Fine is changing the game.
In 2023, Fine reduced its carbon footprint by 90%, electricity consumption by 45%, and water usage by 70%. Their motto, "Crafting jewelry with love for the Earth," reflects their purpose and business practices.
Vice President Abhik Kothari shares, "Our sustainability journey started with a desire to be socially responsible, but it has led to unexpected business benefits. More and more like-minded clients want to collaborate with us because of our values."
The Challenges of True Sustainability
Although sustainable practices are becoming more common, Jewelarc’s Triglone believes progress is still too slow. He argues that sustainability doesn’t need to come at a higher cost; instead, it's a mindset that requires taking responsibility for the impact on people and the planet.
Fine’s Kothari admits that recycled metals can be more expensive, but he believes in the choice they've made. "We are committed to using recycled metals, without compromise."
Both leaders agree that the jewelry industry's shift towards sustainability is market-driven, especially in Western markets. However, true change will require deeper collaboration across industry organizations, standard-setting bodies, and governments to improve the lives of small-scale mining communities and make a real impact.
Leading by Example
Triglone calls for responsible practices beyond branding. Companies must evaluate products, scrutinize supply chains, ask questions, and do their research. True sustainability isn’t just about having a logo—it's about making a genuine difference.