We love our baubles and our beads, but consider the social and environmental challenges faced by workers in the less than sparkling jewelry industry. In particular, two products have received major public scrutiny for common, yet questionable business practices: precious metals and diamonds. Issues these industries face include but are not limited to: sourcing in conflict zones, forced labor, unsupported migratory worker populations, lack of transparent pricing, environmental degradation, and health and safety issues.
Diamonds Fair Trade USA completed a feasibility study for the certification of diamonds in 2009, with the support of the Tiffany & Company Foundation. The study identified specific development needs for diamond-producing and manufacturing organizations, as well as considerations for developing standards to address them. Although not actively developing this program, Fair Trade USA remains interested in providing a mechanism to empower workers along the diamond supply chain through a more transparent, equitable system. If you're company is ready to take the lead on socially- and environmentally-responsible sourcing in the industry, please contact innovation@fairtradeusa.org [643] for more information.
Gold, Associated Silver and Platinum Fairtrade Labelling Organizations International (FLO) partnered with the Association of Responsible Mining (ARM), to develop Fair Trade and Fairmined Certified gold, the world’s first independent ethical certification system for gold and associated precious metals. The dual certification will enable designers, retailers, fabricators and distributors, to offer customers the assurance that their products are responsibly mined. It positions companies at the cutting edge of industry innovation, and demonstrates their commitment to fair sourcing practices to customers, suppliers and stakeholders such as trade bodies and government. Fair Trade USA is exploring the potential to launch the program in the United States in 2011. To review Fair Trade Fairmined standard, please visit ARM’s website [644].















