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We’ve researched and worn dozens of sustainable jewelry brands over the years — these are our personal favorites for ethical, quality pieces made with eco-friendly practices, at a variety of price points.
We’re always searching for ethical jewelry brands and small businesses for sustainable jewelry. We love finding local and woman-owned jewelry companies that dedicate themselves to thoughtful sourcing, fair wages, and give-back initiatives that truly have an impact. Whether it’s a meaningful addition to our own wardrobe or a sustainable gift for our loved ones, ethical jewelry is an accessory that we can (and do) cherish for a lifetime.
Why consider sustainable jewelry?
Sustainable jewelry supports ethical sourcing, minimizes environmental impact, and promotes a more responsible jewelry industry by avoiding conflict minerals and supporting fair labor practices. Rather than resorting to mined minerals, sustainable jewelry brands use recycled precious metals, like gold and silver, which reduces the demand for new mining and lessens environmental disruption. Lab-grown diamonds and gemstones are also used, which also offer an ethical, lower-impact alternative to mined stones (they’re nearly identical to natural stones but come with a smaller carbon footprint and without the social and environmental issues of traditional mining).
Sustainable brands also focus on reducing waste and pollution by adopting eco-friendly production methods and packaging. With every purchase of sustainably-made jewelry, you’re contributing to an overall shift toward a more transparent and eco-conscious jewelry market.
What makes jewelry ethical?
Choosing sustainable jewelry is an important decision as conventional jewelry production is often linked to unethical work practices and environmental concerns. The traditional mining of metals and gemstones has funded armed conflicts and unsafe, exploitative labor conditions. There are also a number of environmental impacts that mining contributes to, including water pollution and soil degradation.
With every purchase of sustainably-made jewelry, you’re contributing to an overall shift toward a more transparent and eco-conscious jewelry market.
On the flip side, ethical and sustainable jewelry brands take a more mindful and transparent approach. They prioritize conflict-free materials, ensuring that gemstones and diamonds are sourced in ways that do not fund violence or human rights abuses. Many brands also adopt fair labor practices, supporting safe working conditions, fair wages, and respect for workers’ rights throughout the supply chain. Certifications such as Fair Trade help verify these commitments, while initiatives like the Kimberley Process aim to prevent conflict diamonds from entering the global market.
Ethical jewelry also often incorporates recycled metals, lab-grown diamonds, or responsibly sourced gems to minimize environmental harm and reduce the demand for destructive mining. You’ll notice that many sustainable brands value artisan craftsmanship and small-scale production, working directly with local communities to preserve traditional techniques while ensuring fair compensation.
By choosing ethical jewelry, your conscious decision supports conflict-free sourcing, dignified labor, and environmentally responsible practices — helping to create a more just and sustainable jewelry industry.
Sustainable materials to look for:
- Recycled metals: Gold, silver, and platinum that are reclaimed and repurposed help reduce the need for destructive new mining.
- Fairmined or Fairtrade gold: Certified gold sourced from responsible small-scale mines that meet strict social, environmental, and labor standards.
- Conflict-free diamonds: Diamonds verified through the Kimberley Process or sourced from suppliers with transparent, traceable supply chains.
- Lab-grown diamonds & gemstones: Chemically and visually identical to mined stones, but created with a smaller environmental footprint.
- Recycled or reclaimed gemstones: Vintage or repurposed gems give new life to existing resources.
- Ethically sourced natural gemstones: Mined under fair labor conditions with minimal environmental impact, often from small-scale or artisan miners.
- Alternative sustainable materials: Pearls, wood, shells, ceramics, or other responsibly sourced natural materials offer a unique, eco-friendly touch.
Our criteria:
Our team has fallen in love with dozens of ethical and sustainable jewelry brands over the years. For this review, we pooled together our experience, researched the best brands on the market, and scoured thousands of customer reviews for this round-up of our favorites. We update this list regularly with emerging favorites that meet our criteria below.
- SUSTAINABLY SOURCED MATERIALS | Each of these sustainable jewelry brands prioritizes the use of recycled metals, conflict-free diamonds, and responsibly sourced gemstones, including noting their traceability, provenance, and origins where available.
- QUALITY/DURABLE | We’ve tested and can confirm that each of these jewelry items are made with high quality materials, can be worn on the daily, and will stand the test of time.
- ETHICAL | We’re carefully selected jewelry brands that follow ethical practices, including fair labor, fair trade, and the Kimberley Process.
- AFFORDABLE | We’ve included brands on the list that are fairly priced at an accessible price point that reflects the true quality of the pieces.
Each one of these ethical brands does incredible work — whether it’s sustainably ending cycles of poverty through employment, upholding traditional craft techniques, or sourcing fair-mined gold and other materials, there’s a jewelry brand here that matches your values.
If you’re popping the question (or if you’ve already said yes!), check out our guide to ethical and conflict-free engagement rings and conflict-free solitaire rings. And for the perfect accessories to compliment your shiny new baubles, our sustainable handbags and fair trade clothing guides have got you covered. 🛍️
Table of contents
- Best For Conflict-Free Gemstones: Brilliant Earth ($95+)
- Best For Responsibly Sourced & Recycled Gold: Mejuri ($35+)
- Best For Fine Jewelry With No Markups: Aurate ($38+)
- Best For Custom & Ready-To-Ship Engagement Rings: Bario Neal ($60+)
- Best For Personalized Jewelry & Modern Heirlooms: GLDN ($22+)
- Best For Affordable Fine Jewelry: Quince ($30+)
- Best For Kenyan Artisan-Made Pieces: SOKO ($55+)
- Best For Customizable, Unique Jewelry: Etsy (price varies)
- Best For Jewelry Inspired By Nature: Catori Life ($166+)
- Best For Everyday Chains You Won’t Want To Take Off: Made By Mary ($24+)
- Best For Dainty Pieces For Layering: Catbird ($14+)
- Best For Birthstone Jewelry: Linjer ($29+)
- Best For Modular Jewelry: AMYO ($24+)
- Best For Brass Jewelry: Cuyana ($58+)
- Best For One-Of-A-Kind Jewelry From Designers Across The Globe: Local Eclectic ($20+)
- Best For Upcycled Glass Jewelry: CLED ($35+)
1. Brilliant Earth
Best For | Conflict-free gemstones
Ethics & Sustainability | FSC-certified sustainable packaging, traceable diamonds, recycled precious metals, gives back to various causes
Product Range | Engagement rings, wedding rings, rings, earrings, necklaces, bracelets, men’s jewelry
Price Range | $95 (pearl pendant necklace) – $79,950 (diamond choker necklace)
Brilliant Earth has a history of ethical and sustainable practices, making them a TGT staple for when we really want to splurge on a piece of jewelry. The brand was one of the first jewelers to provide traceability of a diamond’s origin and ownership, and to offer blockchain-enabled diamonds at scale — you won’t have any trouble tracing the provenance of your Brilliant Earth diamonds. Their provenance claims for natural diamonds, recycled gold, and recycled diamonds are independently audited and verified, so you know you’re getting the real deal! While rings are a popular go-to, Brilliant’s Earth’s necklaces are perfect for layering with formal or everyday wear.
Customer Review | “Absolutely perfect. Wore this and matching necklace as my something blue on my wedding day. Wear all the time now as a special reminder of our wedding and it goes well with anything!! Highly recommend!” – Ellie (Read more reviews.)
The Good Trade Partner
2. Mejuri
Best For | Responsibly sourced & recycled gold
Ethics & Sustainability | Ethically sourced metals & stones, RJC certified responsibly sourced or recycled gold, fair labor, gives back to BIPOC & nonbinary communities
Product Range | Earrings, rings, necklaces, bracelets, anklets, engagement jewelry, men’s jewelry, pet jewelry
Price Range | $35 (single sphere stud) – $6,500 (diamond tennis necklace)
Mejuri doesn’t want you to just wear your fine jewelry on special occasions; the brand wants you to wear it every day. Shop here for rings, earrings, necklaces, and bracelets handcrafted by specialty jewelers in Italy, India, South Korea, and more — without the traditional luxury markups. The materials include cultured freshwater pearls, genuine mineral stones, and diamonds that are ethically sourced from suppliers who follow conflict-free practices. And did we mention it’s all gorgeous? See our honest Mejuri review for more!
Our Editor’s Review | “I’ve been wearing some of the brand’s bestsellers for the past month, and I am happy to say yes. Mejuri does make high-quality, timeless pieces at a range of price points, and I’m excited to keep wearing the brand for years to come. Overall, I feel like the prices are fair for the quality, design, and longevity you’ll get from each piece, and definitely recommend opting for the sterling silver or gold vermeil if you want to save a little, without sacrificing quality.“ – Emily McGowan, Editorial Director at The Good Trade [Read the full review.]
3. Aurate
Best For | Fine jewelry with no markups
Ethics & Sustainability | Ethical working conditions, seventh-generation artisans, sustainably sourced, conflict-free, recycled materials, gives back to various causes
Product Range | Rings, earrings, necklaces, bracelets, anklets, engagement jewelry
Price Range | $38 (chain bracelet) – $17,218 (diamond bezel tennis necklace)
Born out of NYC, Aurate crafts the delicate, stunning gold jewelry (including engagement pieces) that we love, made with 100 percent recycled gold! Inspired by NYC icons — think historic building doorknobs and the Brooklyn Bridge — the sustainable pieces in this collection come with flair and style, making this line perfect for the modern woman. Crafted by seventh-generation craftspeople (yes, seven), you know you’ll look and feel your best flaunting Aurate. You’ll rise to the gold standard in every way.
Customer Review | “So pretty, simple, and delicate. It will be a timeless piece that will never go out of style. It’s perfect to stack with other necklaces and chains. The packaging was excellent too. Will definitely purchase from Aurate again.” – Michelle W. (Read more reviews.)
4. Bario Neal
Best For | Custom & ready-to-ship engagement rings
Ethics & Sustainability | Traceable gems, reclaimed metals, fairmined gold, small footprint, gender-neutral & size-inclusive jewelry, gives back
Product Range | Engagement rings, wedding rings, earrings, necklaces, bracelets, baby & child bracelets
Price Range | $60 (curb chain necklace) – $3,840 (anchor chain necklace)
For custom engagement and wedding rings (and lots of unique ready-to-ship options too), check out Bario Neal. Founded by designers Anna Bario and Page Neal, this women-owned jewelry company is known for its quality handmade pieces and progressive manufacturing processes. Each item is carefully crafted in their Philadelphia flagship store using fairmined gold, reclaimed precious metals, and ethically sourced stones. Bario Neal’s jewelry transcends heteronormative ideals, with gender- and size-inclusivity at the forefront of the company’s design ethos. We love the endless stone options and unique wedding band styles you won’t find anywhere else.
Our Editor’s Thoughts | “Bario Neal uses recycled metals and traceable diamonds and gemstones — meaning every piece they create contains many stories before it reaches your hand. I love the idea of carrying forward an object with an already rich history, so ask yourself “what story am I investing in with this ring?”“ – Emily McGowan, Editorial Director at The Good Trade [Read the full guide.]
The Good Trade Partner
5. GLDN
Best For | Personalized jewelry & modern heirlooms
Ethics & Sustainability | Handmade, 90% recycled materials, donates 10% profits, 85% pieces are made to order
Product Range | Necklaces, rings, bracelets, earrings, anklets, jewelry sets
Price Range | $22 (heart charm) – $520 (snake chain necklace)
GLDN is a TGT fave for personalized pieces that celebrate the one you love with classic and timeless symbols (think birth flowers, zodiac constellations, or monograms). With a commitment to both affordability and sustainability, the brand offers almost all of its pieces in recycled silver, gold fill, rose gold fill, or solid gold options. Whether you love dainty, everyday pieces or an heirloom-quality piece with sentimental meaning, you’ll find something you’ll love at GLDN.
Customer Review | “The flourish earrings are as lovely as the appear in the photos. Wearing them daily with zero discomfort and lots of compliments.” – Hannah H. (Read more reviews.)
6. Quince
Best For | Affordable fine jewelry
Ethics & Sustainability | Ethically sourced metals & stones from RJC members, recycled gold, some pieces made in the USA
Product Range | Earrings, necklaces, rings, bracelets, diamond jewelry
Price Range | $30 (U-hoops) – $2,000 (lab-grown diamond studs)
For justly priced fine jewelry made with real gold, look no further than Quince. Known for their $50 cashmere sweaters and affordable washable silk pieces, Quince’s jewelry is here to leave a lasting impression. We love how the brand provides the specifics on where each precious metal and stone is sourced, and also how pricing compares to other popular brands! Quince keeps its costs low by cutting out the middlemen – all while sourcing their jewelry from Responsible Jewelry Council (RJC) members who advocate and ensure ethical supply chain practices are utilized at all stages of operation.
Customer Review | “I love these earrings to wear when I want a bolder look than my everyday hoops. I’ve worn these in the water and while exercising and have had no tarnishing. They’re comfortable to wear, not too heavy.” – Jennifer F. (Read more reviews.)
7. SOKO
Best For | Kenyan artisan-made pieces
Ethics & Sustainability | Certified B Corp, artisan empowerment through globally connected technology, fair trade practices, upcycled & sustainable materials
Product Range | Earrings, rings, bracelets, anklets, necklaces
Price Range | $55 (stacking rings) – $386 (chain necklace)
Fair trade jewelry brand SOKO works with artisans, helping them to build businesses, improve production capacity, and sustainably increase income. Using SOKO’s mobile tools, Kenyan artisans have access to consumers, orders, and payments, and can expand their businesses and entrepreneurial endeavors (and SOKO artisans earn 5X more than the average maker in Kenya). This ethical jewelry collection includes a stunning range of classics and luxury pieces. Inspired by architecture and traditional tribal designs, SOKO’s line has a strong yet minimal aesthetic that eludes to its origins.
Customer Review | “I was so pleased with the purchase—its beautiful quality, stunning, clean, and simple, and shipping was super fast. I also love that they offer larger sizes in rings. I will definitely be ordering more soko jewelry!” – Erin B. (Read more reviews.)
8. Etsy
Best For | Customizable, unique jewelry
Ethics & Sustainability | Powered by renewable energy, sustainable & upcycled finds, carbon-offset shipping
Product Range | Earrings, necklaces, rings, bracelets, anklets, engagement rings, wedding rings, baby & child jewelry, men’s jewelry, pet jewelry, body jewelry
Price Range | Varies by seller
Etsy is the place to go if you’re looking for something unique that also supports small businesses. While it can feel a little overwhelming to hunt through the large marketplace, a little patience can have a huge payoff if you’re looking for something truly special. Everything from diamond heirloom jewelry to handmade artisan pieces from non-traditional materials can be found here; we love the engaging sellers who will work with us to get our order exactly right. Check out one of our favorite shops, Omi Woods, for elegant and chic statement jewelry. Bonus: Shops are based worldwide, and Etsy offers carbon offset shipping!
Customer Review | “This is one of my most favorite necklaces to wear. It is dainty, strong, sophisticated and very sexy on any décolleté. Spectacular in both gold or silver.” – Tiffany S. (Read more reviews.)
9. Catori Life
Best For | Jewelry inspired by nature
Ethics & Sustainability | Ethically sourced & reclaimed materials, biodegradable & compostable packaging, fair wages, gives back to various causes
Product Range | Necklaces, earrings, rings, bracelets
Price Range | $166 (Ankh necklace) – $12,451 (Cuban chain necklace)
Catori Life specializes in ethically made, nature-inspired jewelry that’s made with care, love, and respect. This woman-owned brand works hard in continuously refining its business practices to better both its production line and the lives of those involved in crafting jewelry. Every item is mindfully made in the USA with every worker receiving fair wages. Catori Life even supports several grassroots organizations, including The Eden Project, which plants 10 trees with every piece of jewelry purchased. Not sure where to start when building your collection? Try the Artifact collection for standout jewelry and the Talisman collection for sentimental, protective pieces — all made with recycled gold.
Customer Review | “I’ve looked everywhere for a unique ankh necklace and I finally found it! I haven’t taken it off since I got it. If you’re thinking about it, do it don’t wait” – Tracy J. (Read more reviews.)
10. Made by Mary
Best For | Everyday chains you won’t want to take off
Ethics & Sustainability | Ethically sourced, fair wages, woman-founded, some made-to-order pieces
Product Range | Necklaces, earrings, rings, bracelets, anklets, bridal jewelry, jewelry sets
Price Range | $24 (mini hoop earrings) – $300 (solid 14K gold chain necklace)
With over 40,000 five-star reviews, you know we had to check out Made by Mary. These thoughtful, beautiful pieces are artisan-made and so light and lovely –– most customers report never wanting to take them off, so the brand created their Live-In Collection: Durable pieces that you can wear everyday through sleep, play, swim, and more. If you’re looking for bolder jewelry, their ready-to-ship pieces are so comfortable you’ll forget you’re wearing them — until someone stops you to compliment them!
Customer Review | “I love how simple yet fun and flirty this ring is! It’s so comfortable, I forget it’s there, so that’s a big plus as well! And who can resist the name Poppy? It’s a winner.” – Jasmine R. (Read all reviews.)
11. Catbird
Best For | Dainty pieces for layering
Ethics & Sustainability | Ethical production in Brooklyn, recycled gold & diamonds, conflict-free stones, gives back via giving fund
Product Range | Rings, earrings, necklaces, bracelets, wedding jewelry
Price Range | $14 (rose earrings) – $14,500 (diamond heart gold ring)
The woman-owned and -operated brand Catbird makes its jewelry entirely in-house at the Brooklyn Navy Yard. With more than 40 fairly paid jewelers and artisans on-site, the team crafts dainty, delicate, and stunning pieces of jewelry for everyday wear and beyond, as well as stocking other artisan jewelry like engagement and wedding rings. All pieces use recycled gold and conflict-free, responsibly sourced stones. Plus, the Catbird Giving Fund donates one percent of all sales (not just profits!) to organizations like the ACLU and the Food Bank of New York City.
Customer Review | “Purchased this along with the dangly diamond pinprick charm as a gift for my sister to build her necklace stack. Absolutely beautiful! Dainty and perfect for stacking, catches the light so beautifully!” – Angelica C. (Read more reviews.)
12. Linjer
Best For | Birthstone jewelry
Ethics & Sustainability | Recycled precious metals & ethically sourced gemstones, carbon-neutral shipping, recycled packaging
Product Range | Rings, earrings, necklaces, bracelets, jewelry sets
Price Range | $29 (stacking ring) – $3,095 (diamond tennis bracelet)
For lovers of birthstone jewelry, you’re in luck. Linjer’s collection of birthstone necklaces, earrings, and bracelets will have you swooning in color! From opal to citrine, and tanzanite to garnet, Linjer makes it easy to find the perfect personalized piece for yourself (or a loved one!). Better yet, sustainability is at the forefront of all Linjer jewelry, with high quality recycled sterling silver, solid gold, and conflict-free diamonds used throughout. Linjer doesn’t only specialize in birthstone pieces, you’ll also be able to shop ethically made gold, silver, diamond, and pearl pieces to help you spice up your daily and special occasion baubles.
Customer Review | “It’s small and very delicate. It has a very particular and beautiful shine. I love it for everyday use!” – M.A.H. (Read more reviews.)
13. AMYO
Best For | Modular jewelry
Ethics & Sustainability | US-sourced materials & supplies, ethically produced, fair wages, handmade
Product Range | Earrings, necklaces, rings, bracelets, anklets, body chains, nose jewelry
Price Range | $24 (ear cuff) – $160 (chain necklace)
AMYO stands for “Accessories Make Your Outfit”, and we have to agree! Finding foolproof jewelry that’ll take your outfit to the next level can sometimes feel few and far between, but AMYO makes it easy. You’ll find everything from engraved pieces, bridal jewelry, statement jewelry, and more. AMYO even offers curated gift guides that make it easy to shop for yourself or a loved one for the right occasion. Sometimes all it takes is adding a peekaboo anklet or a delicate nose stud to elevate your outfit. Each piece is sourced and ethically produced in the USA.
Customer Review | “I have been looking for the perfect huggie for my third piercing and these are it! The design looks so chic and the fit is perfect. They are tight enough that they sit right on my ear but the perfect size to still be comfortable.” – Chloe (Read more reviews.)
14. Cuyana
Best For | Brass jewelry
Ethics & Sustainability | Handmade sustainably in the USA, recycled brass, offsets carbon emissions
Product Range | Earrings, necklaces
Price Range | $58 (sphere charm) – $598 (chunky choker necklace)
We look to Cuyana to put the perfect finishing touches on our everyday looks. The brand’s sustainably made elegant jewelry is crafted with both recycled brass and 14K plated gold, giving it a natural lived-in feel. (The use of recycled brass in their jewelry moves away from traditional mined metals, but still offers all the benefits!) We suggest checking out the mini hoop earrings for comfy and lightweight everyday wear. Cuyana also offers earring embellishments, allowing you to mix and match add-ons to your classic hoops, like baroque pearls or solid spheres. Try an asymmetrical look, by adding an embellishment to a single earring. Très chic!
15. Local Eclectic
Best For | One-of-a-kind jewelry from designers across the globe
Ethics & Sustainability | Supports small businesses, carries 94% women founded/owned brands, recycled materials
Product Range | Rings, charms, necklaces, earrings, bracelets, anklets, jewelry sets
Price Range | $20 (anklet) – $6,500 (vintage diamond ring)
Local Eclectic carries unique, accessible jewelry from emerging designers — most of whom are women-founded and independently run. Launched in 2013 by Alexis Nido-Russo, the brand continues to spotlight one-of-a-kind designs from talented artists worldwide. With 94% of the brands being women-owned and many having small teams of five or fewer, Local Eclectic is a true champion of independent craftsmanship. Everything from photography to fulfillment is done in-house by their women-led team, ensuring high-quality, thoughtfully curated pieces. Whether you’re looking for fine or fashion jewelry, they offer exclusive collections you won’t find anywhere else — plus custom sizing and design options to make each piece uniquely yours.
Customer Review | “Delicate & gorgeous – I’ve been wanting this ring for quite a while and was so glad when it came back in stock. Fits perfectly.” – Michaela M. (Read more reviews.)
16. CLED
Best For | Upcycled glass jewelry
Ethics & Sustainability | Recycled & upcycled materials, handmade in Los Angeles, gives back to local charities, plastic-free packaging
Product Range | Rings, necklaces, earrings, ear cuffs, bracelets, hair accessories, keychains
Price Range | $35 (charm) – $1,150 (necklace)
Handmade in Los Angeles, every CLED piece is crafted with care by a women-led team that’s redefining what jewelry can be. The brand’s name itself — CLED — stands for Conscious Lifestyle, Earth Friendly & Ethical Design, a philosophy woven into everything they create. Instead of relying on mined gemstones or mass-produced plastics, CLED transforms discarded glass into one-of-a-kind “Eco Gems™”. Each gem is cut, polished, and shaped by hand, making every piece unique in color and form. By upcycling glass that would otherwise end up in landfills, CLED proves that “trash” can truly become treasure! Sustainable, cruelty-free, and beautifully distinctive, CLED jewelry is more than an accessory — it’s a statement of style with purpose.
Featured image is by The Good Trade with pieces from Catori Life and Hello Adorn
The post 16 Ethical Jewelry Brands For 2025 appeared first on The Good Trade.
