6 Shockingly Unethical Secrets of the Jewelry Industry

Women today aren’t afraid to protest.

Brands, products, and entire industries know that we, the consumers, now hold power.

But have we stopped and considered the jewelry industry?

Every time we buy from a major jewelry store, we’re supporting their practices—many of which are hidden in plain sight.

What type of practices? I’m glad you asked.

Source: Photo Mix from Pixabay

The jewelry industry is notorious for its discrimination against women.

Despite being an industry where most products are bought or worn by women, most workers and influencers are men.

Have you ever heard of Sterling Jewelers? It’s the parent company of major brands like Kay, Jared, and Zales.

They’re currently facing a class-action lawsuit from 70,000 women employees for discrimination and unfair wages.

And it’s not just one event or one retailer. According to a 2019 study by the Women’s Jewelry Association, 49% of industry professionals have witnessed or are aware of gender discrimination.

Source: Blush and Bar on Instagram

There’s a little secret most people don’t know about buying patterns when the economy takes a turn for the worse.

While most retailers (not to mention most workers) see a big hit, the flashiest luxury brands don’t see a significant sales decrease.

The reason is simple—a recession is when the Haves desperately want to distance themselves from the Have Nots. Luxury goods create a powerful and indisputable barrier.

Many brands increase their prices during a recession. Higher prices create even more substantial barriers between the privileged who can afford their products and people “beneath” them.

At the onset of the 2008 recession, the president of Neiman Marcus was confident. “Remember,” he said, “when our customer tightens their belt, it’s generally ostrich or alligator.”

Source: Peter Döpper from Pexels

The best way to know how ethical your jewelry is? Learn the origins of the piece.

“Disclosing who made it is not a must,” says sustainable jeweler Arabel Lebrusan, “so always go with jewellery from brands, designers or designer-makers who can tell you exactly who made that piece of jewellery.”

The best jewelers know precisely where their jewelry was designed, crafted, and checked for quality. More importantly, they’re not afraid to tell you.

Jewelry gets its support from one source: your votes.

But not the voice you express at the ballot box. The votes you place with your dollars.

Jewelry is a beautiful way to dress up, express yourself, and show your individuality.

But the industry is broken. It’s built on generations of poor business practices that continue to this day.

The best way to initiate change? Do some research and find jewelers with ethical practices.

Find companies with reasonable profit margins and accessible prices.

Brands owned by women that have jewelry for all body types.

Jewelers that don’t work to fix prices, and professionals who are open and honest about where every piece is made.

It’s time for an ethical jewelry revolution.