If you are a jewelry aficionado, you have probably heard of the term ‘recycled gold jewelry’… so what exactly is it? Is it as magical as it sounds? Let’s dive in!
Recycled gold jewelry has become increasingly popular among conscientious shoppers who want to make a statement both in fashion and in sustainability! Recycled gold jewelry, as the name suggests, refers to jewelry that is crafted from previously used gold, such as gold from discarded jewelry, electronic waste, and other sources, which is then melted down and refined to create stunning new gold pieces. This process of repurposing gold reduces the need for mining new gold, and its associated environmental and social impacts.
By choosing recycled gold, you can support ethical and responsible production practices, reduce the demand for new mining, and own a piece of jewelry that is both beautiful and meaningful!
Why Should You Choose Recycled Gold Over Newly Mined Gold?
Recycled gold is better for the environment
Because recycled metals are made from pre-existing sources of metal, they do not require as much energy or pollution-causing chemicals during their creation process. This makes them more eco-friendly than traditionally mined jewelry.
Recycled gold jewelry can be just as beautiful and durable as jewelry made of newly mined metals, without the environmental impacts that can come with mining operations:
- Environmental impacts: Water pollution, sediment runoff, acid mine drainage, and soil contamination, among others.
- Social issues: Unsafe labor practices, lack of access to potable water, and inadequate housing for those living near mining operations, according to the World Gold Council
Recycled gold does not:
- Involve strip mining or cyanide leaching.
- Generate toxic waste in the same way that conventional mining does.
- Contribute to air pollution by burning fossil fuels to power smelters or haul ore out of mines, which saves energy and reduces greenhouse gas emissions.
Shop our Recycled Gold Jewelry
| Solitaire Diamond Ring | Diamond Pave Band - Miriam |
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| 14k Gold Huggie Earrings with Pearl - Alicia | 14k Yellow Gold Diamond Huggie Earrings - Susanna |
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Is recycled gold good quality?
Yes, recycled gold is considered good quality! The process of melting down and recycling gold does not have any negative effects on its quality. When post-consumer gold is melted down, the metal is refined and purified, which means that it has the same purity as newly mined gold.
Is recycled gold real gold?
Yes, recycled gold is real gold! Recycled gold has the same chemical composition and physical properties as newly mined gold. The only difference is the source of the gold. Recycled gold comes from previously used jewelry or industrial scraps whereas newly-mined gold is sourced from the ground.
While many jewelers elect to use a mix of newly-mixed and recycled gold in their pieces, a growing number of modern brands are seeking to only use recycled gold in their jewelry due to the sustainability and ethical sourcing implications! Recycled gold is real gold and just as high quality as newly-mined gold, and can be utilized in any application where gold is traditionally used.
Is it safe to wear recycled gold?
Yes, it is safe to wear recycled gold jewelry! Recycled gold has the same chemical and physical composition as newly-mined gold — the only difference is how it is sourced! That being said, similar to any gold jewelry, some individuals may experience allergic reactions to the alloy metals added to the gold jewelry. It’s also important to note that if the gold jewelry is poorly made or contains other potentially harmful materials, it could pose a risk to the wearer. Therefore, it is important to purchase gold jewelry, recycled or not, from reputable sources!
What are the benefits of recycled gold?
Recycled gold is an excellent choice for jewelry as it offers a number of benefits! When it comes to gold-toned jewelry, recycled gold is the sustainable and ethical option, as it:
- Reduces the amount of waste produced
- Conserves natural resources
- Helps combat the negative effects of mining on local communities and ecosystem
Is recycled gold an ethical choice?
Yes, recycled gold is considered an ethical choice, and is highly regarded by customers looking to purchase ethical jewelry! Recycling gold reduces unnecessary mining, which can have significant negative environmental and social impacts, such as deforestation, pollution, and exploitation of workers.
Recycled gold also avoids the use of toxic chemicals in the extraction process, which can cause harm to both people and wildlife in surrounding areas. Additionally, recycling gold helps to reduce waste and conserve natural resources, as it repurposes materials that would otherwise end up in landfills or incinerators. Choosing recycled gold also supports sustainable and responsible mining practices, which prioritizes the well-being of local communities and ecosystems.
Linjer’s Recycled Gold Jewelry
If you're a consumer who cares about the environment, look no further. Sustainability is a core value of our studio. Our 14k gold jewelry is made of 100% recycled gold, reducing unnecessary mining that can be unsafe and damaging to the environment. Because of this, your purchase not only supports fair labor practices but also helps conserve natural resources worldwide!
The process of recycling gold in the jewelry industry is not new – in fact, it’s a practice that’s believed to date back thousands of years, with evidence of gold being melted down and repurposed in various cultures throughout history. However, modern brands with a sustainability focus, like Linjer, are now prioritizing the use of 100% recycled gold in their jewelry pieces, as opposed to a mix of recycled and newly mined gold. This shift towards using only recycled gold is a reflection of the growing awareness and commitment to sustainability in the jewelry industry, driven by environmentally-conscious consumers, like you! So if you're looking for eco-friendly gold jewelry, look no further than our 14k Gold Jewelry Collection!
