Luke Judge

Archaeological excavations have proven that people were wearing forms of primitive jewelry as far back as the Middle Stone Age, some 75,000 to 100,000 years ago. Jewelry is a powerful form of human expression reflecting wealth, beauty, personality and art. Unfortunately the obsession people have for jewelry and the demand for bringing precious metals and gems out of the ground and into our jewelry boxes has had detrimental effects on the ecology of our planet.

As people become more aware of this negative impact, an eco-consciousness is growing in the jewelry industry. With this awakening, alternatives to accessorizing that offer a true expression of beauty and which do not leave a footprint on the environment are being created aptly named Eco Jewelry or Eco Friendly Jewelry.

When we buy eco jewelry we are making not only a fashion statement but we are buying something that also expresses our love for the environment. Today, eco jewelry can come from a variety of sources. It may be jewelry that is created with materials that are environmentally friendly, from recycled and reused materials or jewelry that is made under fair trade guidelines. Factors affecting the eco-friendliness of jewelry include the raw materials used to create the item, the sustainable method that these materials were collected and the method of production which should have no negative impact on the environment.

With the awareness of the environment developing, there are thousands of companies today that create exquisite eco-friendly jewelry which will complete ones look and reflect ones personal style and taste. From recycled gold to eco friendly tree free paper, jewelry designers are now creating beautiful and creative masterpieces by reinventing what was old or unusable. The imagination and creativity of each artist who takes used or discarded materials and transforms them into exciting, innovative designs is remarkable and the variety of eco jewelry is unlimited.

If diamonds, gold or silver are your preference, then there are choices in eco jewelry that make a difference and allow you to enjoy the beauty of these stones. Some companies offer stunning diamond, gold, and silver jewelry that help the environment. These diamonds are harvested from Canadian mines which monitor local wildlife and aquatics to ensure that neither is disturbed and profits are donated to the development and preservation of these areas. Recycled gold and silver are then used to complete the exquisite pieces. Eco jewelry can also be created with the use of rescued exotic woods, telephone wires, found objects and items that others would consider ‘trash.’ These items are then transformed by the designers into creative wearable art for sophisticated tastes.

One of the greatest advantages of handmade eco friendly jewelry is that each piece is unique and so when you wear it, you are wearing a functional and rare piece of art that no one else owns. Eco Jewelry is artistic and exclusive, and it brings eco-friendly choices to individuals who love staying in style as much as they are committed to sustainable living and saving the planet. Earth friendly jewelry offers one the ability to live well yet to live lightly on the earth.

So before you purchase an expensive piece of fine jewelry, think about the background of the piece you are buying. Put your money where your future is and start making choices which are environmentally friendly – you will be surprised to learn that buying eco friendly jewelry does not mean you have to compromise one bit when it comes to your expression of style.

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