UPDATE FOR THE TRADE

March 2025

Lately, we’ve noticed a rising number of articles in international media discussing the urgent need for more ethical, transparent, and responsible supply chains in the jewellery industry. While this conversation is not yet as prominent in the Australian press, it is rapidly gaining momentum in the United States and Europe, where consumer expectations around sustainability and ethical sourcing are evolving.

Ethical practices and responsible mining were frequent topics of discussion at the 2024 CIBJO Conference, held in November and attended by JAA Director Ronnie Bauer. He noted that the repeated emphasis on these issues is largely influenced by CIBJO’s Eurocentric perspective. The JAA’s affiliation with CIBJO enables us to bring forward valuable insights and global best practices, ensuring that the Australian jewellery industry remains informed and aligned with evolving international standards.

A recent New York Times article highlighted Ethical Metalsmiths (EM), an organisation dedicated to promoting responsible sourcing and sustainability in jewellery. Their mission aligns with a growing movement of consumers who want assurance that their purchases are free from unethical practices, including environmental harm, exploitative labour, and conflict-related sourcing. As awareness spreads, it’s easy to see how more consumers will support EM’s goals and push for industry-wide reform.

One of the most striking aspects of this shift is the high level of reader engagement in these discussions. Many consumers are not only reading about ethical jewellery but actively participating in conversations, sharing opinions, and demanding better standards from the industry. Their concerns extend beyond just diamonds and gold—they are thinking about the entire supply chain, from mining conditions to the treatment of artisans and factory workers. This shift reflects a broader cultural change where transparency and ethical responsibility are no longer optional but expected.

For jewellery retailers, this evolution presents both challenges and opportunities. Selling jewellery is no longer just about craftsmanship, design, and price; it now involves answering complex ethical questions. Consumers increasingly want to know:

Where were these materials sourced?
Were the workers fairly paid?
Does the brand support responsible mining and production practices?

Retailers who cannot provide clear answers may struggle to maintain consumer trust, while those who embrace transparency and ethical sourcing will likely strengthen their reputation and customer loyalty.

The good news is that forward-thinking brands are already taking steps to adapt. Some are working with fair trade-certified suppliers, others are committing to recycled metals and responsibly sourced gemstones, and many are improving their supply chain visibility to reassure customers. Independent jewellers, in particular, have a unique opportunity to differentiate themselves by sharing the stories behind their materials and craftsmanship.

While Australia may not yet be at the forefront of this movement, it seems inevitable that ethical sourcing and sustainability will become an industry standard here as well. The real question is whether local jewellers will proactively lead the change or wait until consumer pressure forces them to adapt. One thing is certain: the call for greater transparency in the jewellery industry is only getting louder.

JAA Board

JAA Directors and staff - JIF Melbourne (2025 and 2024)
Images not for reproduction without permission