When you choose a piece of jewelry, you’re not just selecting a design—you’re embracing the story of its materials. At FAHEDE, we believe in transparency, sustainability, and craftsmanship. In this guide, we’ll explore the metals, stones, and beads used in jewelry-making, their origins, properties, and their impact on people and the planet.
1.Metals: The Foundation of Jewelry
Precious Metals
- Gold (14K, 18K, 24K)
- Source: Mined in countries like Peru, South Africa, and Canada.
- Properties: Hypoallergenic, tarnish-resistant, and highly malleable.
- Impact: Traditional gold mining can cause deforestation and water pollution. We use recycled gold to reduce environmental harm.
Sterling Silver (925 Silver)
- Source: Mined in Mexico, Peru, and China.
- Properties: Bright luster, but tarnishes over time. Requires polishing.
- Impact: Ethical concerns include mining labor conditions. We source from fair-trade suppliers.
Alternative & Eco-Friendly Metals
- Brass & Bronze
- Properties: Warm, vintage look but may tarnish or cause allergies (nickel content).
- Impact: Often recycled, making them a sustainable choice.
Stainless Steel
- Properties: Durable, hypoallergenic, and rust-resistant.
- Impact: Requires less mining than precious metals.
2. Gemstones: Nature’s Treasures
Natural Gemstones
- Diamonds
- Source: Mined in Botswana, Russia, and Canada.
- Properties: The hardest natural material, symbolizing durability.
- Impact: Conflict diamonds fund violence; we use "lab-grown" or “ethically sourced“ diamonds.
Sapphires & Rubies
- Source: Mined in Sri Lanka, Madagascar, and Myanmar.
- Properties: Extremely durable, vibrant colors.
- Impact: Some mines exploit workers; we verify "fair wages and safe conditions".
Turquoise & Opal
- Source: Mined in the USA, Australia, and Ethiopia.
- Properties: Unique patterns, but softer—avoid water and chemicals.
- Impact: We support small-scale miners who use **sustainable practices**.
Lab-Grown & Synthetic Stones
- Lab-Created Gemstones
- Properties: Identical to natural stones but more affordable.
- Impact: No mining required—eco-friendly and conflict-free.
3. Beads & Organic Materials
Glass & Ceramic Beads
- Properties: Lightweight, colorful, and versatile.
- Impact: Often handmade by artisans, supporting small communities.
Wood & Seed Beads
- Properties: Light, natural, and biodegradable.
- Impact: Sustainably harvested—no deforestation.
Recycled & Upcycled Materials
- Properties: Unique textures, eco-conscious.
- Examples: Recycled glass beads, upcycled metal components.
4. Ethical & Sustainable Sourcing: Our Commitment
At FAHEDE, we prioritize:
√Fair Trade Practices – Ensuring miners and artisans earn fair wages.
√Recycled Metals– Reducing the demand for destructive mining. √Conflict-Free Gemstones – Supporting ethical supply chains.
√Low-Waste Production – Using every material efficiently.
Conclusion: Jewelry with a Conscience
Every material has a story—from the hands that mined it to the artisans who shaped it. By choosing ethically sourced jewelry, you support a more sustainable and humane industry.