Recycle gold VS Fairmined gold: how to choose?

Gold is a precious metal, as old as planet Earth, that has left its mark on civilisations throughout history. Today, it is considered one of the most prestigious and valuable metals, however the mining practices behind this natural resource have had significant consequences over the ages, including environmental disasters, poor working conditions for miners, and armed conflicts.

As a brand, we are ethically and sustainably conscious, which is why we were adamant from the very beginning that we were only ever going to use conflict free gold in our jewellery designs. Many years on, we still work exclusively with 100% Recycled Gold and Fairmined gold in our fine collection and bespoke designs. Today we want to share with you the difference between the two options.

FAIRMINED GOLD

Fairmined Gold was created in 2007 and certifies mining operations that adhere to strict ecological, social, and human standards. Artisanal mines that receive this certification guarantee that their gold is:

Sourced without child labor or slavery

Does not support armed conflicts

Promotes equal pay between men and women

Creates jobs in local communities

Ensures legal and safe working conditions

Protects soils by banning the use of toxic products such as mercury and cyanide.

Fairmined gold can be traced from mine to maker, so consumers can know exactly where the material used to make their jewellery originated from. Each piece made using Fairmined Gold or Silver can be hallmarked with the Fairmined Logo. They also conduct 3 yearly audits with jewellers to ensure they are adhering to Fairmined Standards and that their ethically sourced gold is not mixed with other types of gold, thus maintaining their 100% conflict free status. In early 2023 KIND was audited by the Fairmined Standards & Assurance Department and awarded a further 3 years certification to be a Fairmined Licensee.

RECYCLED GOLD

At KIND, we aim to be a zero-waste brand, which is why we have always been proud to offer 100% recycled gold as an option to our customers. We love that gold can be so easily melted down, redesigned and repurposed into a beautiful new piece of jewellery. It means we are reusing existing resources and limiting our impact on the planet. All of our collection designs are available in 100% recycled gold, which is refined and re- alloyed in the UK and has been sourced from Vipa Designs Limited.

We also encourage our customers to reuse their existing gold from pre-loved and heirloom jewellery through our Rework X Recycle services. Not only does this give our customers the ability to use materials that hold a lot of sentimental value to them, it also limits the amount of new precious metals and gemstones that are extracted from our planet.

WHICH ONE SHOULD YOU CHOOSE?

Although Fairmined Gold and Recycled Gold are both environmentally conscious options, there are a few differences that you should consider when making your decision.

Recycled Gold is made up from pieces of pre-loved jewellery from around the world. It is impossible to trace the origin as it will have come from various sources, however it reduces the impact on the planet moving forward, as it limits the amount of precious resources that need to be mined from the planet.

Fairmined Gold comes from the Oro Puno mine in Peru and is a slightly more expensive option. This is because we pay a ‘Gold Premium’ as an incentive for mines to gain the Fairmined Certification. It takes a huge amount of hard work to formalise mining operations so that they run fairly and efficiently. Gaining the Fairmined Certification means the mines are able to support their workers and local communities and promote environmentally and socially responsible practices. Most importantly these mines are setting a higher standard of mining which represents a positive change in the jewellery and mining industries.

At KIND Collection, we believe our customers should have the choice between the two gold options, which is why our bespoke designs are sent across with two quotes – one for Fairmined and the other for 100% Recycled precious metals. The metals are of the same quality and will look and perform in the same way. There is no right or wrong choice and it generally comes down to what is important to each customer individually and their personal ethos.

We are always 100% transparent with our community, so if you have any questions about the gold that we use in our studio, our business practices in general, please don’t hesitate to reach out.