Adopt Fair Trade Jewelry, End Artisan Exploitation

The mere thought of wearing a piece of jewelry, howsoever beautiful and expensive it may be, that it has been crafted by exploiting the artisans or produced in sweat shops is most shocking. In the jewelry trade, it is the artisans, the real creators of masterpieces that are deprived of normal lives, paid less and are forcibly overworked.

It is with this thought in mind that fair trade jewelry came into being. There are many practitioners of this ethical practice of creating jewelry and they honor and promote the artisans working for them.

Popularity of fair trade

That fair trade movement is catching on is borne out by the fact that today there are more fair trade products in the market, than ever before. Although fair trade has a lot many products in its ambit, it is the jewelry business that has joined the movement in a big way.

There is little doubt that this initiative has done wonders for improving the quality of life of hardworking artisans the world over. And jewelry makers are no exception.

It is not only due to the ethical treatment of jewelry makers that contributes towards fair trade, it is also the environment friendly material that is used in crafting jewelry. This is because environmental sustainability is one of the guiding principles of fair trade, and use of eco-friendly and up-cycled products are encouraged.

Fair trade is the only trade that celebrates Earth Day each year most truthfully. And why not, the products created in fair trade do not add to the worlds already worsening pollution situation.

Fair trade jewelry

When it comes to fair trade jewelry there is simply no comparison. The work of artisans in a free environment, where they are considered a part of family business, is certainly much more creative with an eye for detail.

There are many items that are sourced directly from these artisans based in villages and remote areas. They not only make the pieces of jewelry in authentic designs, but display a distinct traditional flavor, which is not found in factory made pieces.

Each piece of fair trade jewelry is unique, since it is handcrafted with designs evolved over centuries. It is not only the old designs, but infusion of new styles that make this jewelry unique.

Types of fair trade jewelry

All types of jewelry come under the ambit of fair trade. What is mostly sourced from such artisans are ethical fashion jewelry, which includes bracelets, earrings, necklaces, rings and even Tagua collection.

Most fair trade jewelry shops source their jewelry products from independent small-scale artisan groups, cooperatives and workshops. Since these jewelry pieces are made using local materials with time-honored skills, it has a major effect on the cost.

Conclusion

We can all contribute towards fair trade jewelry by opting only for it. For you this may be a small step, but for the disadvantaged artisan it can mean ending their poverty, empowering them and preserving traditional crafts.