At Good May Come, we value a wholistic approach to creating our pieces that benefit the wearer and the environment.

Gold-plated and Vermeil jewelry, while often more affordable than pure gold jewelry, come with environmental concerns related to sustainability and the impact on the planet. Let's delve into these issues to better understand the implications of these jewelry types.

1. Resource Extraction and Mining Practices: The primary environmental concern associated with gold jewelry, including gold-plated and Vermeil, is the extraction of gold from the earth. Traditional gold mining often involves destructive practices like open-pit mining and the use of toxic chemicals like mercury and cyanide. These practices can lead to deforestation, soil erosion, water pollution, and habitat destruction, which have significant impacts on ecosystems and local communities.

2. Energy Consumption: The production of gold-plated and Vermeil jewelry requires energy for refining and processing the metals, which contributes to greenhouse gas emissions and global warming. The energy-intensive nature of these processes can have a considerable carbon footprint, especially when compared to the relative simplicity of recycling pure gold for new jewelry.

3. Short Lifespan and Waste Generation: Gold-plated jewelry, in particular, has a relatively short lifespan. The thin layer of gold plating can wear off over time, necessitating re-plating or, ultimately, disposal. This can lead to a significant amount of electronic waste, which often ends up in landfills, potentially leaching harmful chemicals into the environment.

4. Toxic Substances: Vermeil jewelry involves a layer of gold bonded to a base metal, typically silver. The process can sometimes use toxic chemicals for bonding or coating. If not managed properly, these chemicals can harm workers and the environment during the manufacturing process.

5. Consumer Behavior: The affordability of gold-plated and Vermeil jewelry may encourage frequent purchases and disposal, contributing to a culture of fast fashion. The overconsumption of jewelry, even if it's relatively inexpensive, can strain resources and generate more waste.

Sustainability Solutions:

1. Recycling: Opt for recycled gold jewelry. Recycled gold reduces the demand for new mining and minimizes the environmental impact associated with traditional gold extraction.

2. Choose High-Quality Materials: When investing in jewelry, consider high-quality pieces made from materials with longer lifespans, such as solid gold. While the upfront cost may be higher, the long-term value and durability can make it a more sustainable choice.

3. Support Ethical Brands: Look for jewelry brands that prioritize ethical and sustainable sourcing and manufacturing practices. Certifications like Fairtrade Gold or Responsible Jewellery Council can indicate a commitment to sustainability.

4. Reduce and Reuse: Instead of buying new pieces frequently, consider reusing and repurposing existing jewelry, or pass it down as an heirloom to reduce the environmental impact.

5. Awareness and Education: Encourage consumers to be aware of the environmental impact of their choices and educate them about sustainable alternatives, thus driving a shift towards more eco-friendly options.

In conclusion, while gold-plated and Vermeil jewelry offer affordability and style, their environmental impact raises sustainability concerns. Opting for more sustainable alternatives, such as pure gold jewelry or recycled gold, can contribute to a more responsible and eco-friendly approach to accessorizing, reducing the industry's overall environmental footprint. It's essential to make informed choices that align with both your style and your values.