Jewelry

What To Look For

Environmentally sound options for brand-new jewelry may not be available at your corner jewelry store, but fortunately, there are a number of companies with high ethical standards that allow you to shop with the assurance that your new accessories come with an earth- and people-friendly bill of health.

Materials

Antique, vintage or pre-owned (usually referred to as "estate") jewelry pieces--or family heirlooms--are the most ecological choice, simply because no new materials were mined to make them. Diamonds rarely depreciate in value, and you can add sparkle to old rings simply by boiling them.

Recycled metals reduce the need for destructive mining. According to the environmental nonprofit WorldWatch Institute, 80 percent of gold mined from the earth is used for jewelry. Also look for recycled silver, titanium and platinum and other recycled materials, like glass and leather, used in more casual pieces.

Buy diamonds from Canada and Australia.

Buy gemstones from Kenya, Madagascar, Israel, India, Belgium and South Africa.

Pearls have a relatively low impact on the environment. Cultured (or farmed) pearls have even been used to clean water and reduce heavy-metal pollution.