Ethical Jewelers Sought For Virtual Directory
COLLEGE CORNER, Ohio, July 18, 2011 — Ethical Metalsmiths is actively seeking applications for their new project, the Jeweler Directory. The online database will introduce jewelers who are informed and committed to social and environmental responsibility with consumers who are searching for quality, ethically sourced hand made jewelry. The directory will offer jewelers a unique opportunity to promote their values as well as their jewelry.
Each jeweler will be featured on a full page including an image, a brief biography, a statement of values, contact details and a link to their website. People can search for jewelers by business, name, location or key words. As it grows, the directory will be widely advertised and promoted.
There isn’t a one-size-fits-all checklist to evaluate ethicalness, but jewelers should be committed to taking steps to build ethics and sustainability into their practice. Foundations can include choosing materials responsibly, promoting supply chain transparency, adopting sustainable studio practices, staying informed, supporting mining reform efforts, and including a values and principles statement on their website. Participation in the Jeweler Directory will be limited to independent jewelers and small studios.
Countless people around the world are working heroically to protect communities and the environment, promote fair trade and defend human rights. But, in the words of Hellen Keller, “The world is moved along, not only by the mighty shoves of its heroes, but also by the aggregate of tiny pushes of each honest worker.”
The Jeweler Directory can be seen at www.EthicalMetalsmiths.org/directory. Currently, jewelers listed include Birgit Kupke-Peyla, Geoffrey Giles, Alexandra Hart, Kirsten Muenster, Bario-Neal, TAP Studios, Gabriel Craig, Ute Decker, Valerie Kasinskas, Stacey Lane, Chris Nelson, Ben Neubauer and Karen Olsen Ramsey.
Listing fees will be used to maintain and promote the directory as well support Ethical Metalsmiths’ programs. The annual listing fee is $100. The initial set-up fee of $25 will be waived for jewelers who apply before September 1, 2011. Detailed information about the directory and how to apply are available online.
Ethical Metalsmiths is a non-profit committed to leading jewelers and consumers in becoming informed activists for responsible mining, sustainable economic development and verified, ethical sources for gold, silver, diamonds, gemstones and other materials used for jewelry. Ethical Metalsmiths’ vision is a world in which people can create and enjoy jewelry made with materials from responsible sources that respect and protect the earth, its peoples, and cultures.
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FJA is a forum open to a diversity of opinions in support of its mission. Any editorial expressed in this article represents the opinion of the author, and not necessarily the views of Fair Jewelry Action members.
