The sustainability challenges in jewelry and watchmaking are diverse, ranging from environmental issues to social and ethical concerns. The mining of gemstones and metals can lead to serious environmental damage, particularly soil and water pollution, deforestation, habitat destruction and erosion. To extract gold, for example, highly toxic and environmentally harmful chemicals such as cyanide and mercury are often used. Processing metals and gemstones to produce jewelry and watches often requires large amounts of energy.

In some parts of the world, workers in mining and jewelry production are exploited and treated poorly. This can include child labor, inadequate safety measures, and low wages, especially in small-scale mining. So-called “blood diamonds” are used to finance violent conflicts and wars. It is often difficult to accurately determine the origin of gemstones and metals, making it difficult for processors and consumers to make sustainable decisions.

Large luxury brands, but also small companies are setting an example. In an industry characterized by a high level of transparency, they follow their supply chains with particular care, preferring recycled gold or silver, ethically sourced gemstones and precious metals from certified sources. They are committed to fair working conditions and support local communities through fair wages and social programs. Many watch and jewelry manufacturers rely on specific certifications and standards, although some of these are criticized for their non-transparent processes. The industry includes, for example, the design, manufacture and assembly of watches, jewelry, gold and silversmith’s goods, as well as the wholesale and retail trade in gemstones, precious metals, pearls, watches and jewelry through specialist and jewelry stores and online shops. It has a transformational role, among other things, in the circular economy to produce long-lasting and reusable products as well as in ensuring fair supply chains.

The industry includes, for example, the design, manufacture and assembly of watches, jewelry, gold and silversmith’s goods, as well as the wholesale and retail trade in gemstones, precious metals, pearls, watches and jewelry through specialist and jewelry stores and online shops. It has a transformational role, among other things, in the circular economy to produce long-lasting and reusable products as well as in ensuring fair supply chains.