What is Fairmined?

Fairmined is an assurance label that certifies gold from empowered responsible artisanal and small-scale mining organizations who meet world leading standards for responsible practices.

Fairmined certified gold comes from artisanal and small-scale mining organizations certified to the Fairmined standard. This certification guarantees that the gold has been extracted in harmony with nature, human dignity and sustainable development, contributing to the transformation of lives in these mining communities.

The Hidden Toll of Conventional Gold Mining

Behind the sheen of conventional gold lies a tale of environmental harm and social injustice. Traditional mining methods can involve the use of toxic mercury, which leads to water pollution and impacts ecosystems and communities alike. The miners often work in precarious conditions, facing exposure to harmful substances. What’s worse - they are typically denied fair wages for the hard labor they contribute to bringing this valuable metal to market. On top of this, the conventional gold supply chain contributes to deforestation and also offers funding opportunities to conflict groups. It's a harsh reality that the beauty we adorn ourselves with can be a source of suffering for those extracting it from the Earth.

Recycled Gold: A Misleading Solution

Recycled gold may seem like a step in the right direction, but it doesn't actually solve the issues tied to conventional mining.

In fact, most gold labeled as "recycled" is, in fact, newly mined gold - cleverly rebranded as it moves through the supply chain. Often, “recycled gold” has never actually reached a consumer at all. It's a bit like regular gold in disguise, maintaining the status quo. The concept of “recycled gold” is, unfortunately, mostly a lie.

So, here we are at the crossroads, searching for a more ethical option for buying gold without compromising the well-being of our planet and its people. Enter Fairmined gold – a beacon of hope in the world of responsible and transparent sourcing.

Fairmined Paves the Way for Positive Impact

Fairmined gold ensures fair wages, safe working conditions, and access to essential services for miners. This certification system promotes environmentally responsible practices by incentivizing miners to minimize the use of toxic chemicals and strive for a minimal ecological footprint. Beyond gold, the Fairmined certification system also extends to silver; Fairmined Silver represents a necessary step towards addressing and minimizing the damage associated with this popular white metal.

Bringing responsible mining to scale, instead of turning away from new mining at all, is the true solution to creating lasting change in the jewelry and mining industry. Fairmined offers gold and silver with a conscience – ensuring that the beauty of your jewelry doesn't come at the expense of our planet.