Eco-friendly jewellery has minimal to no harmful effects on the environment and leaves a minimal carbon footprint. It is Earth-friendly and contributes to green living while helping conserve resources like water and energy. This sustainable form of jewellery is made from recyclable, reusable raw materials, including the following:

• brass
• recycled sterling silver
• gemstones that require minimal mining
• pearls obtained from tropical fish, and 
• synthetic diamonds manufactured artificially.  

Moreover, eco-friendly products also prevent air, water, and land pollution, which has a very positive impact on the health and well-being of society. By consciously using the resources, you can engage yourself in eco-friendly habits and practices lessening the detrimental effects of economic development on mother Earth.

Eco-friendly jewellery - the inception of the concept

The conventional jewellery business is closely related to mining, be it gold, diamond, or gemstones. However, we all know that mining practices harm the ecosystem and are hazardous for the health of miners. 

For starters, gem-cutting releases dust that is harmful to the lungs of the artisans. In addition, these miners and artisans often do not earn even a living wage after risking their health, working in an unprotected environment. 

Jewellery manufacturing also produces toxic waste from the harmful chemicals used during the process. In contrast, ethical and sustainable jewellery brands bypass all these harmful practices and use innovations in techniques and designs to come up with beautiful jewellery pieces that do not come at the price of causing harm to the flora and fauna of our planet.

Statistics show that 75% of millennials are willing to pay more for an environmentally sustainable product than 63% of Gen Z, 64% of Gen X, and 57% of Boomers. It instils hope that Mother Earth is in safe hands with the new generation willing to protect our planet, even if it means paying a bit extra. However, these numbers raise a simple question - "why are millennials inclined towards eco-friendly jewellery?".

Jewellery holds a very high place in the fashion industry. People today are turning heads towards eco-friendly jewellery because extracting precious gems by destroying nature like mining fields is receiving many arguments. 

Millennials don't consider spending lakhs on gold and diamonds as they eventually will end up in bank lockers. Eco-friendly jewellery made from recycled products is highly liked and sought after. 

In addition, green statement jewellery is very trendy and adds that X-Factor to your Instagram and Pinterest profiles. Moreover, it is reflective of your conscious efforts towards protecting and sustaining our ecosystem.

Why is eco-friendly jewellery costlier?

Many of us wonder why eco-friendly products are pricey. Logically, it should not be, but unfortunately, in the current scenario, it is. There are a few reasons behind it.

Though there is increased awareness about the efficacy of sustainable products, it still has a long way to go. The number of buyers for such commodities is lesser, and hence the brands have to keep their prices higher to sustain their business. 

Cost of getting recognition

The eco-friendly brands need to get essential certifications such as Responsible Jewellery Council, Fair Trade Certified Mark, Fairmined Certification, etc., to gain traction in the market.

Other brands do not need such certifications, but eco-friendly ones do. These certifications require money and effort, so it adds up to the cost.

The cost of production of raw materials using all ethical practices is always higher. Moreover, the owners of such brands are people with high principles and believe in paying their artisans well and what they are worthy of. 

Thus, to accommodate all these expenses, they rightly have to keep the prices of their products a bit more.  

As an appreciation for their efforts and to get the satisfaction of contributing to our environment's sustainability, we all must encourage and promote such brands. That said, with the increase in demand, the prices will automatically drop.

Why should you buy eco-friendly jewellery?

Jewellery is one fashion statement that is entirely yours to make. Some people prefer unique classics, while others prefer repurposed household items. Then there's another section that looks for expensive pieces.

But if a corner of your heart vouches for saving the environment, then you should be working on some very different set of rules. So, here are some facts that might incline someone towards buying eco-friendly jewellery. Let's see if these facts define YOU.

• You want to look beautiful and own beautiful jewellery, but you are not ready to risk the life of Earth. 
• You are not prepared to buy ivory products, which have come at the cost of elephants and rhinos. Neither the leather obtained from animals is your cup of tea. 
• Wearing jewellery made up of endangered reefs cannot give you happiness. 
• Gold and diamonds do not attract you as you know that gold mining is one of the most destructive industries in the world. It can pollute water, displace communities, and harm the ecosystem. Also, diamond production is so risky that it can even stir a war. 

How many facts did you check? All of them, right?

It is not just about the type of jewellery you choose; it speaks volumes about the wearer's personality. Only an eco-friendly person who is an ardent believer in preserving nature in its pristine form and living in harmony with all the creatures of the world can have such an inclination. 

With a bit of inventiveness, you can locate or create beautiful, affordable eco-friendly jewellery that you will love forever. 

Here are a few examples.  

• If you fancy wearing a pendant with the look of a stone, you can shape it out with the different colours of clay. 
• If you want a bracelet, you can use plant seeds strung together. You can make it prettier with seeds that naturally occur in striking colours. 
• For the precious metal look, consider using recycled coins or chains. That said, recycled glass can be used to make some stunning shiny pairs of earrings. 
• The seashells that you collected on your beach vacation can be used in many ways as accessories. 
• The versatility of wood makes it preferable for eco-friendly jewellery designers. 

Using such sustainable products to make jewellery are smaller steps towards protecting our lovely planet. Wearing green jewellery will give you the confidence of being blessed by mother nature, and you will have the feeling of being one with the Universe. 

Another reason for choosing eco-friendly jewellery is the jewellery being a boon for people who have allergic reactions to the metals used in traditional jewellery. Being completely natural, it suits even the most sensitive skin types.