Ethical Gemstone Sourcing: The Sylvera Way

In an era marked by a heightened consciousness about social and environmental issues, the jewellery industry faces increased scrutiny over its practices. Historically, the sourcing of gemstones has occasionally been marred by grave ethical issues, casting a long shadow over the industry's reputation. Consumers are now more aware than ever of the potential horrors linked to the traditional methods of sourcing, such as forced labour, environmental damage, and the funding of conflicts. As a result, ethical sourcing has shifted from a niche concern to a critical business imperative.

The importance of scrutinizing the origins of gemstones cannot be overstated. Every piece of jewellery tells a story, not just of love and beauty, but potentially of the conditions under which it was made. Knowing the provenance of gemstones and understanding the supply chain processes ensures that the beauty of the jewellery we wear does not conceal tales of injustice and exploitation. It's about aligning our aesthetic desires with our ethical standards, ensuring that every sparkle is free of conflict, and every shimmer brings peace of mind.

At Sylvera, we are deeply committed to rewriting the narratives of the jewellery industry. We understand that our customers care not only for the quality and beauty of their jewellery but also for the stories behind them—stories that should never be about compromise, either on quality or on ethics.

Sylvera’s Commitment to Ethical Sourcing

At Sylvera, our commitment to ethical sourcing is not just a policy—it's a core part of our identity. From the moment we begin designing a piece of jewellery, ethical considerations guide our decisions. We believe that luxury should not come at the expense of ethics or sustainability. Here’s how we embody this philosophy:

Sustainable Materials: We meticulously select our materials, ensuring they meet high environmental and ethical standards. Our diamonds and emeralds are sourced only from mines that adhere to strict environmental protection standards.

Fair Labour Practices: Human rights are at the forefront of our sourcing strategy. We ensure that every person involved in the creation of our jewellery—from the miners to the artisans—is fairly treated and compensated. We conduct regular audits of our suppliers to ensure compliance with labour laws and our own high standards for worker welfare.

Ethical Business Partnerships: Integrity in our business dealings is paramount. We form partnerships with suppliers and other businesses that share our commitment to ethical practices.

Transparency: We strive for complete transparency in our supply chain. By providing our customers with detailed information about the origins of our gemstones and the conditions under which they were processed, we foster trust and assure our clients that the products they purchase are ethically sourced.

Continuous Improvement: Our commitment to ethics is dynamic; it evolves as new challenges and opportunities arise. We are continually looking for ways to improve our sourcing practices and reduce our impact on the planet, ensuring that our standards for ethical sourcing remain rigorous and up-to-date.

Through these efforts, Sylvera not only adheres to ethical sourcing standards but also sets new benchmarks for responsibility in the jewellery industry. We believe that through persistent and consistent actions, we can influence the entire sector towards greater transparency and accountability.

Sylvera’s Ethical Sourcing Process

At Sylvera, our process of sourcing gemstones, particularly diamonds and emeralds, is anchored in a deep commitment to ethical and sustainable practices. This commitment traces back to our origins. Founded as London DE in 2013, our goal was to create a jewellery business that stood as a beacon of integrity and responsibility within the industry. This foundation has grown stronger as we've evolved into Sylvera.

In 2020, we took a significant step forward by establishing our Colombian subsidiary, London DE SAS, strategically located in the emerald-rich district of Bogotá. This location is more than just a base; it's a vital link in our supply chain that enables us to oversee directly and ensure the ethical sourcing of our gemstones. By being in the heart of one of the world’s premier emerald districts, we have the advantage of first-hand relationships with the mines and local artisans.

Our commitment to ethical sourcing is holistic. We assess every mine and supplier to ensure they meet our stringent standards for environmental and social responsibility. This includes verifying that all operations respect local labour laws, offer fair wages, and maintain safe working conditions. We are committed to a mine-to-market supply chain that is not only transparent but also free from any ethical conflicts that could arise through middlemen. This direct oversight helps us guarantee that every Sylvera gemstone is sourced with the utmost integrity.

Furthermore, our operations are designed to minimize our ecological footprint. We employ a paperless office system to reduce waste and operate energy-efficient practices across all our locations. In London, we partner with local businesses and workshops to reduce the need for long-distance transportation of goods, significantly lowering our carbon emissions.

In Bogotá, we have established a workshop that not only uses local materials but also employs local craftspeople. This approach not only supports the local economy but also ensures that the benefits of the jewellery industry are shared with the community that hosts us. By investing in local talent and resources, we contribute to sustainable community development and help prevent the exploitation often seen in mining regions. 

Sylvera remains dedicated to transforming the jewellery industry by setting a standard for ethical sourcing and production. By ensuring the integrity of our supply chain and supporting sustainable practices, we not only enhance our brand but also contribute positively to the global community. This commitment to ethical practices in sourcing diamonds and emeralds is not just about doing business—it's about making a difference.