Sustainability and Ethics

At Gems & Flowers, sustainability is practical, honest, and rooted in small-studio values.
We are not a factory. We do not produce in bulk. Every piece is made slowly, with intention, and in small quantities. Below is a clear overview of how we work, what we prioritize, and how we approach ethical jewelry making.

1. Small-Batch, Handmade Production

Every piece is crafted by hand in the studio.
This means:

  • No mass production
  • No overstock
  • No wasted inventory
  • Each piece made to order or in very small batches

Handmade work naturally reduces waste and energy use. The scale is small, personal, and controlled.

2. Responsible Sourcing

We choose materials from trusted suppliers who focus on:

  • Genuine natural gemstones
  • High-quality solid gold and silver - 100% recyclable 
  • Safe and traceable metals
  • Ethical sourcing whenever available (most of the materials)

As a small studio, we buy stones in limited quantities, not huge commercial lots. This lets us choose stones individually and avoid unnecessary waste.

We do not use lab-grown stones unless stated.
We do not use plastic or some mystery base metals.

Every gemstone is selected by eye for color, quality, and character.

3. Thoughtful Materials

Sterling Silver

A recyclable precious metal that can be melted, reused, repolished, or restored indefinitely.

Solid Gold

Lasts for generations and holds long-term value. Easy to repair, recycle, or reshape.

Gold Plated Silver

Used on some designs. When plating wears off, the piece continues its life as solid silver. It is not disposable jewelry.

Natural Gemstones

Chosen individually, not in bulk. Many come from small family-based suppliers and cutters.

4. Low Waste Studio Practices

We minimize waste through:

  • Recycling silver and gold scraps
  • Reusing gemstone offcuts when possible
  • Keeping inventory small
  • Packaging materials chosen for minimal waste
  • Optional simple packaging for customers who want less material
  • Repairing jewelry instead of replacing it

We do not discard returned or imperfect items. Many are repaired, reworked, or sold as samples.

5. Longevity Over Fast Fashion

Our jewelry is designed to last.
That alone is a form of sustainability.

We offer:

  • Professional repairs
  • Replating guidance
  • Stone tightening
  • Long-term support
  • Warranty coverage

When customers keep and repair their jewelry instead of replacing it, environmental impact stays low.

6. Fair Pricing for Handmade Work

Your jewelry is made by a real person, not a factory line.
Pricing reflects:

  • Honest labor
  • High-quality materials
  • Time-intensive craftsmanship
  • The cost of responsible sourcing

 

7. Ethical Communication

We commit to:

  • Clear descriptions
  • Accurate materials information
  • No misleading claims
  • Honest photos and videos
  • No greenwashing

Transparency is part of sustainability.

8. Our Long-Term Goals

As a growing studio, we aim to:

  • Increase recycled metal use
  • Expand responsible gemstone sourcing
  • Offer more repair and refresh services
  • Introduce more sustainable packaging options
  • Continue reducing waste in all parts of production

We make changes carefully and with purpose.

A Studio Built on Care

Sustainability is not a marketing claim here. It is the natural result of small-scale craftsmanship, careful sourcing, and a commitment to making jewelry that lasts.

If you ever have questions about materials, sourcing, or care, reach out anytime. We will always tell you the truth.