Eco Friendly Product Guide

Gold and silver mining is notoriously unethical and destructive to the planet.  Mining precious metals has caused both environmental and social problems galore.  According to the watchdog website No Dirty Gold, the following are some of the tragic impacts that mining gold (and other metals and gems) can have:

Environmental Impacts:
Poisoned Waters
Solid Waste
Polluted Air
Threatened Natural Areas

Community Impacts:
Endangered Communities
Disadvantaged Women
Violated Human Rights
Toll on Indigenous Peoples

Worker Impacts:
A Dangerous Profession
Undermined Workers’ Rights

Economic Impacts:
Economic and Financial Toll

But many people love jewelry and are eager to find ways that they can still enjoy the glamour of gold and silver without sacrificing their ethics.  One way is to buy jewelry made of recycled gold and silver.  That is, rather than buying newly mined metals, jewlery makers and taking existing jewelry and recreating it into something new.

This ultra modern Pebble Ring from Gretchen & Grace is a great example.  Made from silver and overlayed in recycled 14 karat gold, it is adjustable for sizes 6-8.  Its 1960′s inspired design is perfect for any lady who wants to show off her green moxie.  At just $42 it is an affordable and beautiful gift idea.

The oak barrels from wine making are often only used once or twice, which means hundreds of them each year are discarded.  Innovative green folk have been finding ways to upcycle the wood and use it to make all kinds of wonderful products, including these handsome cuff links.

The rich, wine-stained wood is inset in genuine sterling silver for a classic look.  Whether the man in your life is a greenie or wine lover–or both–this is a perfect gift suitable for any special occasion. Available from Eco-Artware.com for $130.