Fairmined Gold Explained: Why Metals Matter for Ethical Engagement Rings

Your engagement ring is a symbol of eternal love, but have you ever thought about the material that your ring is made of? While most couples know about the environmental impact of natural diamonds, they often overlook the metal that is used for their ring. Gold mining poses similar environmental and ethical concerns as diamond mining, resulting in deforestation, community displacement, and poor worker health.

If you’re looking for an ethical engagement ring, it’s important to consider every aspect of your design. At Valley Rose, we use certified fairmined gold, which is audited to ensure the highest ethical standards, and source our gold directly from responsible Artisanal Small-Scale Mining (ASM) companies.

What is Fairmined Gold?

For gold to be certified as “fairmined gold”, it has to meet strict standards for worker safety and environmental protection, including providing fair, livable wages for workers. These mines are audited by an independent third-party, ensuring that the mine is implementing environmentally-friendly policies and practices to improve and eliminate its carbon output. 

When you buy an ethical engagement ring made with fairmined gold, you’re helping to create a more sustainable jewelry industry with better protections and support for workers throughout the supply chain.

Read more: Fairmined Gold. Vs. Recycled Gold: Which is More Ethical & Environmentally Friendly?

Why Gold Sourcing Matters for Engagement Rings

Gold sourcing matters as gold mining is responsible for significant environmental destruction, including deforestation, soil contamination, and habitat loss. Mining activity often has a negative impact on the local community, from causing significant health complications to providing unsafe working conditions with low wages. 

Fairmined gold breaks away from this as the mines involved are required to meet strict environmental guidelines, including reducing their mercury usage, responsibly managing the land, and reinvesting where possible into the local ecosystem. When you buy an engagement ring made with fairmined gold, you’re helping to preserve traditional craftsmanship and support artisanal miners and their families, including helping to encourage long-term community development and growth.

FAQs About Fairmined Gold for Ethical Engagement Rings

Is fairmined gold more expensive?

Fairmined gold is typically more expensive than traditional or recycled gold as it’s deliberately priced to provide workers with a fair living wage and implement environmentally responsible mining practices.

Is fairmined gold durable for everyday wear?

Fairmined gold is just as durable as other types of gold, making it ideal for everyday wear as it’s scratch-resistant and naturally hypoallergenic.

Does Fairmined gold look different from traditional gold?

Fairmined gold is identical to traditional gold; the only difference is how the gold is mined and the working conditions of the miners.

Why does Valley Rose use Fairmined gold?

We use fairmined gold because we believe that everyone should be paid a fair, living wage with safe working conditions.

Create a Modern Heirloom with Fairmined Gold at Valley Rose Studio

The key to creating a modern heirloom is to use ethical materials, including fairmined gold. At Valley Rose, we’re committed to creating a more sustainable and inclusive jewelry industry that supports workers throughout the supply chain, which is why our alternative engagement rings are made with fairmined gold.

Every Valley Rose ring is made-to-order by our team of talented artisans, allowing you to select everything from your choice of gemstone to your preferred type of fairmined gold. Our rings are designed to be worn today and cherished forever as heirlooms that will stand the test of time. Get started by exploring our sapphire engagement rings or by booking a virtual consultation to begin designing your custom engagement ring.