I believe that little changes in the way we live and work can have a big impact on the world we live in . All Inari Designs jewellery is made using ethically and sustainably sourced materials.
I want to create fine jewellery that is both beautiful and long lasting, and, importantly, is socially and environmentally responsible. In essence Jewellery with a Conscience.
PRECIOUS METALS - The Environmental impact of traditional jewellery
Traditional jewellery production often relies on harmful mining practices, causing environmental damage and resource depletion. For example, it’s estimated that producing a single gold wedding band generates between 5 and 20 tonnes of waste!
At Inari Designs, I prioritize sustainability. My jewellery is crafted using recycled silver and gold, minimizing my ecological footprint. I source recycled metals from trusted UK suppliers, recycle my own scrap metals, and transform cherished old jewellery into new, treasured pieces.
This eliminates the need for mining in the majority of my jewellery and repurposes the precious metals already in circulation.
ETHICALLY SOURCED GOLD & ARGENTIUM SILVER
While it might seem like the answer to ethical gold lies in simply avoiding mining altogether, it's important to remember the people who rely on it for their livelihoods. That’s why I use ethically sourced, single-mine origin gold. By choosing this gold, you're supporting communities and ensuring fair working conditions. And your gold is fully traceable to a single mine. It’s about creating beautiful jewellery while making a positive impact.
The five key themes of SMO gold:
In addition to recycled silver, I also use Argentium silver which is made from 100% recycled silver. Argentium also guarantee the traceability of their silver. It is also a higher percentage of silver than Sterling (92.5 vs 93.5%) and is more tarnish resistant than standard sterling silver. For further information on Argentium, please visit their website here.
The gemstone industry is still working to establish clear standards for ethical sourcing. While this is a positive step, there is still a long way to go.
ETHICALLY SOURCED
I am committed to using gemstones that are sourced responsibly and ethically. This means working with reputable suppliers who prioritize fair labour practices, health and safety and environmental protection. Some of my gemstones can even be traced directly back to the mine, ensuring that the miners receive a fair price for their work. While I aim to use only ethically sourced gemsones, at the moment, supply is limited and most of these gemstones are one of a kind.
RESPONSIBLY SOURCED
I understand that ethical sourcing isn't always perfect, which is why I also work with suppliers who adhere to the Responsible Jewellery Council's code of practice. You can read more about the RJC here.
It is my hope that as the industry moves toward a more ethical footing, ethical gem mining will become more the norm.
DIAMONDS & MOISSANITE
LAB-CREATED diamonds as the name suggests are created in a lab and as such there is no direct impact on the environmental landscape. They are also 100% conflict free (they have not been used to fund wars or conflict). This said, they do require large amounts of energy to create which is broadly on par with mined gemstones. Wherever possible I source my lab created gemstones from labs that use renewable power. Overall, these are my choice for diamond jewellery and I believe they are a more ethical and environmentally friendly choice. I will always state if a gemstone is lab created in the description.
NATURAL MINED diamonds. Occasionally I will use natural mined diamonds if a client requests. I will always source these from suppliers who can fully trace their diamonds back to the original mine or can guarantee their source has strictly followed the Kimberley Process, which aims to ensure diamonds have not been used to fund war or conflict. Diamond mines in Canada and Botswana are generally considered to have the most ethical operations and the GIA has recently established certification of mine origins.
MOISSANITE is a gemstone that closely resembles diamond but is a different mineral. Moissanite does occur naturally in the environment and has been found in meteors, however natural stones are tiny, thus all commercially available gemstones are lab-created. Moissanites are a less expensive alternative to diamond and have become increasingly popular in engagement rings.
Almost all of my jewellery is Made to Order. This is to minimise the amount of waste I generate. If I have excess jewellery I will melt it down and use the metal to create a new design.
As much as possible I have eliminated the use of harsh chemicals in favour of environmentally friendly options
I do not use gold, silver, rhodium or other plating as these involve the use of toxic chemicals and specialist waste disposal.
I do use an ancient technique known as Keum Boo which involves the application of pure gold to the surface of silver via heat bonding. This technique uses no chemicals, only the application of heat and pressure
My electricity provider is an eco-power service
I use recycled,/recyclable, compostable, sustainable, plastic free packaging to post your items.
My jewellery boxes are made with sustainable materials, though I am continuously searching for more eco friendly options.
I am trialing the use of plantable seed card for some of my jewellery.