Wiesner Mokume Gane wedding rings use recycled gold.
For 15 years now, we have been buying more old jewelry, bars and coins directly from our goldsmiths than we actually need for our wedding ring production. For this reason, we speak of 100% recycled gold and silver in our production. As the topic of recycling is sometimes associated with the myth of poorer quality, we would like to explain below why recycled gold is primarily of the same quality and, on closer inspection, even of a higher quality. (Taking environmental and social factors into account)
First: What myths are circulating about recycled gold
❌Myth 1: Recycled gold is inferior.
✔ ️Fact: Recycled gold undergoes rigorous refining processes to ensure its quality. It is chemically and physically indistinguishable from newly mined gold.
❌Myth 2: Recycled gold is not truly sustainable
✔ ️Fact: The use of recycled gold reduces the need for new gold mining, which is often associated with significant environmental and social costs. At Wiesner Trauringe, we use 100% recycled gold, which leads to short transport routes, local value creation and lower CO2 emissions.
❌Myth 3: Recycled gold is only suitable for "simple" jewelry
✔ ️Fact: The quality of recycled gold allows it to be used in all types of jewelry, including high-quality wedding rings and engagement rings.
The facts speak clearly in favor of recycled gold
It is high quality, more environmentally friendly and makes economic sense. At Wiesner Mokume Gane wedding rings, using 100% recycled gold and silver is not just a choice, but a clear commitment to sustainability and premium quality.
Golden times for the environment: the benefits of recycled gold in wedding rings
In the fast-paced world of fashion and consumerism, the demand for precious metals, especially gold, has risen continuously. A shining star in the midst of this scene is "recycled gold". Especially when it comes to something as valuable and symbolic as wedding rings, the question often arises as to the origin and quality of the gold.
1. Quality guarantee of recycled gold
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The truth behind the myth: A widespread misconception is that recycled gold is inferior. In reality, recycled gold undergoes rigorous refining processes that remove all impurities. The result? Gold that is in no way inferior to newly mined gold in terms of quality and purity.
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Recycled gold in wedding rings: The flawless quality of recycled gold makes it the ideal choice for jewelry that will be worn for a lifetime, such as wedding rings and wedding bands. The durability and longevity of recycled gold is beyond question.
2. The ecological footprint of gold
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Sustainability factor: A significant advantage of recycled gold is its positive impact on the environment. By reducing the need for new gold mining, significant environmental and social costs are avoided.
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CO2 emissions and gold mining: Primary gold mining has several environmentally damaging aspects, from deforestation to significant energy consumption and the use of harmful chemicals. According to some studies, mining just one gram of gold can release up to 1,000 grams of CO2. In contrast, the CO2 footprint of recycling gold is much lower.
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Local value creation: In addition to the environmental benefits, the use of recycled gold also promotes the local economy by shortening transportation routes and reducing CO2 emissions.
3. Versatile applications of recycled gold
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Not just for "simple" jewelry: Another myth is the assumption that recycled gold is only suitable for less elaborate pieces of jewelry. In reality, recycled gold is just as versatile and applicable as newly mined gold - whether for magnificent necklaces, elegant earrings or symbolic wedding rings.
What are the social and environmental consequences of mining gold in conventional mines?
Gold mining, especially in developing countries, has significant social and health impacts on the workers and communities surrounding the mines, as well as on the environment. Here are some of the key points:
1. Health risks for workers:
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Hazardous working conditions: Many gold mines, especially smaller, unregulated ones, have unsafe working conditions. Collapsing mines, lack of protective equipment and improper use of machinery can lead to injury or even death.
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Exposure to chemicals: Gold mining often requires the use of highly toxic chemicals such as mercury and cyanide. If handled improperly, these chemicals can cause serious health problems, including neurological damage, respiratory illnesses and reproductive problems.
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Long-term effects: Many workers in gold mines are exposed to chronic health problems that develop over years, for example through dust inhalation or prolonged exposure to toxic chemicals.
2. Social impacts:
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Exploitation and child labor: In many mines, especially in unregulated areas, child labor and the exploitation of workers are widespread. Pay is often minimal and barely enough to survive.
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Dispossession and displacement: Gold mining can lead to the displacement of local communities when their land is needed for mining, often without adequate compensation or consideration of indigenous peoples' rights.
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Social tensions: The influx of workers and the rapid growth of mining towns can lead to social tensions, increased crime rates and other social problems.
3. Local environmental impacts:
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Water pollution: The use of toxic chemicals, particularly cyanide and mercury, can lead to severe water pollution, affecting both wildlife and human health.
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Deforestation: Large areas of forest are often cleared to make way for mines, leading to loss of biodiversity and disruption of the natural water balance.
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Soil pollution: Mining often leaves behind huge amounts of overburden and waste that pollute the soil and make it unusable for agriculture.
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Interference with natural water flow: Mining can disrupt the natural flow of water, which can cut off communities downstream from their water source.
Demand for ethically sourced gold and awareness of these issues is increasing, and many organizations and companies are advocating for more responsible gold mining. Gold recycling can play a crucial role in this by reducing the need for new gold mining and mitigating the associated social and environmental problems.
What is the evidence that the workers in the mines have a job after all, and might otherwise go hungry?
It's a complex issue that raises both ethical and economic questions. Here are some facts and perspectives that shed light on the dilemma surrounding mine labor in developing countries:
1. Economic necessity:
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Source of income: For many people in mining regions, working in mines is often the only source of income available. In some cases, these jobs may pay better than other available work, especially in areas with few economic alternatives.
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Economic contribution: Mining can make a significant contribution to the gross domestic product (GDP) of some countries. This means that the country's economy and public finances can benefit from mining revenues.
2. Quality of jobs:
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Working conditions: Even though mining provides a source of income, working conditions are often precarious. Unsafe working environments, long working hours and a lack of protective equipment are common problems.
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Temporary nature of the work: Mines often have a limited lifespan. When they are exhausted, they are closed and the jobs disappear, leading to economic challenges for the workers and their communities.
3. Dependency and vulnerability:
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Lack of diversification: Overdependence on the mining industry can be problematic, especially if there is no effort to diversify the economy. If the mining sector is affected by external factors such as falling world market prices, this can lead to economic crises.
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Social problems: The influx of workers into mining communities can lead to social tensions and increased crime rates. In addition, local communities may be displaced from their land to make way for mining activities.
4. Long-term perspective:
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Do we need a paradigm shift? Some argue that short-term dependence on mining is acceptable if the revenues are used to promote long-term development goals and build a diversified economy.
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Ethics vs. economics: It is a balancing act between recognizing the economic benefits of mining and the need to address ethical issues of working conditions and environmental impacts.
It is important to recognize that while the mining industry provides jobs and in many cases is a significant source of income for many people, working conditions and long-term impacts on communities and the environment should not be ignored. A comprehensive, sustainability-focused approach is necessary to ensure that the benefits of mining outweigh the associated costs.
Various organizations promoting etic and sustainable practices in jewelry industry
Yes, there are various organizations and initiatives that aim to promote ethical and sustainable practices in the jewelry and precious metals industry. One prominent organization is the Responsible Jewellery Council (RJC). It should be noted that there is no "European Jewellery Council", but the Responsible Jewellery Council is an international organization that sets standards for the entire jewelry supply chain, from mine to retail.
Responsible Jewellery Council (RJC):
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Goals: The RJC was founded to promote responsible ethical, social and environmental practices in the jewelry supply chain. This includes the extraction of precious metals and diamonds.
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Certification: The RJC offers a certification program for its members based on the RJC Code of Practices. This code sets standards for business practices, human rights, labor rights, environmental concerns and management practices.
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Transparency: One of the main advantages of RJC certification is transparency. Companies that seek certification must undergo independent audits to ensure that they comply with the set standards.
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Recognition: The RJC is recognized and supported by many large companies in the jewelry industry as well as NGOs and other stakeholders.
It is important to note that while certifications such as the RJC can help enforce higher standards in the industry, they do not eliminate all problems associated with gold mining and jewelry production. Consumers looking to purchase ethically produced jewelry should research certifications and company practices, and ask further questions if necessary to ensure their purchases align with their values.
