The Good Trade editors endorse products we’ve personally researched, tested, and genuinely love. Learn more about our methodology and business model here.
We’ve researched and tested dozens of sustainable jewelry brands — these are our team’s personal favorites for high quality pieces sourced ethically with eco-friendly practices, at a variety of price points.
We’re always searching for ethical jewelry brands and small businesses for sustainable jewelry. We love finding local and woman-owned jewelry companies that dedicate themselves to thoughtful sourcing, fair wages, and give-back initiatives that truly have an impact. Whether it’s a thoughtful addition to our own wardrobe or a sustainable gift for our loved ones, ethical jewelry is an accessory that we can (and do) cherish for a lifetime.
What makes jewelry ethical and sustainable?
Choosing sustainable jewelry is an important decision as conventional jewelry production is often linked to unethical work practices and environmental concerns. The traditional mining of metals and gemstones has funded armed conflicts and unsafe, unethical work environments. There are also a number of environmental impacts that mining contributes to, including water pollution and soil degradation.
On the flip side, sustainable jewelry brands prioritize the use of recycled metals and conflict-free gemstones in their jewelry. These brands use a more mindful and conscious approach to making pieces that do not contribute to practices that harm people and the environment. You’ll also notice that sustainable jewelry brands value artisan craftsmanship and aim to support small, responsible production practices that empower local communities and workers. By choosing sustainable jewelry, your conscious effort will positively impact the environment and promote responsible consumption.
Our criteria:
Our team has researched and tested dozens of ethical and sustainable jewelry brands and scoured thousands of customer reviews for this round-up of our favorites. We update this list regularly with emerging favorites that meet our criteria below.
- SUSTAINABLY SOURCED MATERIALS | Each of these sustainable jewelry brands prioritizes the use of recycled metals, conflict-free diamonds, and responsibly sourced gemstones, including noting their traceability, provenance, and origins where available.
- QUALITY/DURABLE | We’ve tested and can confirm that each of these jewelry items are made with high quality materials, can be worn on the daily, and will stand the test of time.
- AFFORDABLE | We’ve included brands on the list that are fairly priced at an accessible price point that reflects the true quality of the pieces.
Each one of these ethical brands does incredible work — whether it’s sustainably ending cycles of poverty through employment, upholding traditional craft techniques, or sourcing fair-mined gold and other materials, there’s a jewelry brand here that matches your values.
If you’re popping the question (or if you’ve already said yes!), check out our guide to ethical and conflict-free engagement rings.
Best Overall | Most Affordable | Best Luxury
1. Mejuri
Best For | Responsibly sourced & recycled gold
Ethics & Sustainability | Ethically sourced metals & stones, RJC certified responsibly sourced or recycled gold, fair labor, gives back to BIPOC & nonbinary communities
Product Range | Earrings, rings, necklaces, bracelets, anklets, engagement jewelry, men’s jewelry, pet jewelry
Price Range | $38 (single mini hoop) – $8,400 (diamond tennis necklace)
Mejuri doesn’t want you to just wear your fine jewelry on special occasions; the brand wants you to wear it every day. Shop here for rings, earrings, necklaces, and bracelets handcrafted by specialty jewelers in Italy, India, South Korea, and more—without the traditional luxury markups. The materials include cultured freshwater pearls, genuine mineral stones, and diamonds that are ethically sourced from suppliers who follow conflict-free practices. And did we mention it’s all gorgeous? See our honest Mejuri review for more!
Mejuri Review | “These earrings are so beautiful and the quality is amazing. I love that these will last forever because i’m literally living in them! I never take them off. LOVE!” – Lauren A. [See all reviews]
2. Aurate
Best For | Fine jewelry with no markups
Ethics & Sustainability | Ethical working conditions, seventh-generation artisans, sustainably sourced, conflict-free, recycled materials, gives back to various causes
Product Range | Rings, earrings, necklaces, bracelets, anklets, engagement jewelry
Price Range | $40 (gold hinge huggie earrings) – $18,000 (diamond bezel tennis necklace)
Born out of NYC, Aurate crafts the delicate, stunning gold jewelry (including engagement pieces) that we love, made with 100 percent recycled gold! Inspired by NYC icons—think historic building doorknobs and the Brooklyn Bridge—the sustainable pieces in this collection come with flair and style, making this line perfect for the modern woman. Crafted by seventh-generation craftspeople (yes, seven), you know you’ll look and feel your best flaunting Aurate. You’ll rise to the gold standard in every way.
Aurate Review | “I have been buying pieces that are hand made and this was my first vermeil piece and I must say I was still impressed with the quality and look of the piece. I would definitely consider looking at more pieces that are vermeil. I love this site and its products.” – Kevin B. [See all reviews]
3. SOKO
Best For | Kenyan artisan-made pieces
Ethics & Sustainability | Certified B Corp, artisan empowerment through globally connected technology, fair trade practices, upcycled & sustainable materials
Product Range | Earrings, rings, bracelets, anklets, necklaces
Price Range | $54 (mari ring) – $338 (collar necklace)
Fair trade jewelry brand SOKO works with artisans, helping them to build businesses, improve production capacity, and sustainably increase income. Using SOKO’s mobile tools, Kenyan artisans have access to consumers, orders, and payments, and can expand their businesses and entrepreneurial endeavors (and SOKO artisans earn 5X more than the average maker in Kenya). This ethical jewelry collection includes a stunning range of classics and luxury pieces. Inspired by architecture and traditional tribal designs, SOKO’s line has a strong yet minimal aesthetic that eludes to its origins.
Soko Review | “This ring is exactly what i was looking for. I love the weight of it, and that i can slightly adjust it. Beautiful quality, and rich gold color!” – Holly C. [See all reviews]
4. Brilliant Earth
Best For | Conflict-free gemstones
Ethics & Sustainability | FSC-certified sustainable packaging, traceable diamonds, recycled precious metals, gives back to various causes
Product Range | Engagement rings, wedding rings, rings, earrings, necklaces, bracelets, men’s jewelry
Price Range | $95 (pearl stud earrings) – $79,950 (diamond necklace)
Brilliant Earth has a history of ethical and sustainable practices, making them a TGT staple for when we really want to splurge on a piece of jewelry. The brand was one of the first jewelers to provide traceability of a diamond’s origin and ownership, and to offer blockchain-enabled diamonds at scale— you won’t have any trouble tracing the provenance of your Brilliant Earth diamonds. Their provenance claims for natural diamonds, recycled gold, and recycled diamonds are independently audited and verified, so you know you’re getting the real deal! While rings are a popular go-to, Brilliant’s Earth’s necklaces are perfect for layering with formal or everyday wear.
Brilliant Earth Review | “This ring was for our 55th wedding anniversary and I was late in ordering it. The BE staff did everything they could to get the ring to me as fast as possible and kept me in the loop on their progress. The gifts were a nice touch too.” – Hall [See all reviews]
The Good Trade Partner
5. GLDN
Best For | Personalized jewelry and modern heirlooms
Ethics & Sustainability | Handmade, 90% recycled materials, donates 10% profits, 85% pieces are made to order
Product Range | Necklaces, rings, bracelets, earrings, anklets, jewelry sets
Price Range | $36 (staple studs) – $360 (pearl necklace set)
GLDN is a TGT fave for personalized pieces that celebrate the one you love with classic and timeless symbols (think birth flowers, zodiac constellations, or monograms). With a commitment to both affordability and sustainability, the brand offers almost all of its pieces in recycled silver, gold fill, rose gold fill, or solid gold options. Whether you love dainty, everyday pieces or an heirloom-quality piece with sentimental meaning, you’ll find something you’ll love at GLDN.
GLDN Review | “I got the Flora Bennett Necklace to honor my son, who was born in May. I chose the lily (his birth flower) for the larger disk and his first initial for the smaller one. I also chose to invest in the 14k solid gold since this is something I’m going to wear every day, and I wanted a more low maintenance material. This necklace is really dainty and beautiful, especially in the solid gold. The quality is amazing. I love that I can honor my son in a different way, with his birth flower. As always, GLDN’s packaging is equally beautiful and special and as a bonus, the solid gold pieces come with a little suede pouch. Thank you, GLDN, for providing unique designs for customers to personalize.” – Nicole E. [See all reviews]
6. Quince
Best For | Affordable fine jewelry
Ethics & Sustainability | Ethically sourced metals & stones from RJC members, recycled gold, some pieces made in the USA
Product Range | Earrings, necklaces, rings, bracelets, diamond jewelry
Price Range | $30 (U-shaped huggie hoops) – $7000 (natural diamond studs)
For justly priced fine jewelry made with real gold, look no further than Quince. Known for their $50 cashmere sweaters and affordable washable silk pieces, Quince’s jewelry is here to leave a lasting impression. We love how the brand provides the specifics on where each precious metal and stone is sourced, and also how pricing compares to other popular brands! Quince keeps its costs low by cutting out the middlemen––all while sourcing their jewelry from Responsible Jewelry Council (RJC) members who advocate and ensure ethical supply chain practices are utilized at all stages of operation.
Quince Review | “As other reviews have shared, these lovely globe boho hoops go with everything. I can dress down or up and either way wearing these earrings just naturally fits. Extremely pleased.” – Deanna S. [See all reviews]
7. Catori Life
Best For | Jewelry inspired by nature
Ethics & Sustainability | Ethically sourced & reclaimed materials, biodegradable & compostable packaging, fair wages, gies back to various causes
Product Range | Necklaces, earrings, rings, bracelets
Price Range | $54 (cuff set) – $2,198 (gray diamond ring)
Catori Life specializes in ethically made, nature-inspired jewelry that’s made with care, love, and respect. This woman-owned brand works hard in continuously refining its business practices to better both its production line and the lives of those involved in crafting jewelry. Every item is mindfully made in the USA with every worker receiving fair wages. Catori Life even supports several grassroots organizations, including The Eden Project, which plants 10 trees with every piece of jewelry purchased. Not sure where to start when building your collection? Try the Artifact collection for standout jewelry and the Talisman collection for sentimental, protective pieces — all made with recycled gold.
Catori Life Review | “I was not sure if I could pull these off for some reason. They are such a presence and so powerful. I finally took the leap and purchased and I love them! This is my 4th purchase from Catori and the designer has really captured the spirit of wearing a meaningful amulet.” – Stacy C. [See all reviews]
8. Etsy
Best For | Customizable, unique jewelry
Ethics & Sustainability | Powered by renewable energy, sustainable & upcycled finds, carbon-offset shipping
Product Range | Earrings, necklaces, rings, bracelets, anklets, engagement rings, wedding rings, baby & child jewelry, men’s jewelry, pet jewelry, body jewelry
Price Range | Varies by seller
Etsy is the place to go if you’re looking for something unique that also supports small businesses. While it can feel a little overwhelming to hunt through the large marketplace, a little patience can have a huge payoff if you’re looking for something truly special. Everything from diamond heirloom jewelry to handmade artisan pieces from non-traditional materials can be found here; we love the engaging sellers who will work with us to get our order exactly right. Check out one of our favorite shops, Omi Woods, for elegant and chic statement jewelry. Bonus: shops are based worldwide, and Etsy offers carbon offset shipping!
Etsy Review | “This is one of my most favorite necklaces to wear. It is dainty, strong, sophisticated and very sexy on any décolleté. Spectacular in both gold or silver.” – Tiffany S. [See all reviews]
9. Bario Neal
Best For | Custom & ready-to-ship engagement rings
Ethics & Sustainability | Traceable gems, reclaimed metals, fairmined gold, small footprint, gender-neutral & size-inclusive jewelry, gives back
Product Range | Engagement rings, wedding rings, earrings, necklaces, bracelets, baby & child bracelets
Price Range | $90 (yellow gold studs) – $12,760 (cluster diamond ring)
For custom engagement and wedding rings (and lots of unique ready-to-ship options too), check out Bario Neal. Founded by designers Anna Bario and Page Neal, this women-owned jewelry company is known for its quality handmade pieces and progressive manufacturing processes. Each item is carefully crafted in their Philadelphia flagship store using fairmined gold, reclaimed precious metals, and ethically sourced stones. Bario Neal’s jewelry transcends heteronormative ideals, with gender- and size-inclusivity at the forefront of the company’s design ethos. We love the endless stone options and unique wedding band styles you won’t find anywhere else.
Bario Neal Review | “My husband and I had a wedding on short notice because of family illness and Seth was so helpful in getting our wedding rings made and delivered right to the ceremony location. Seth was helpful throughout the process and kept in communication with us until we received the rings. We love our rings and look forward to wearing them for many years to come.“ – Mercer G. [See all reviews]
The Good Trade Partner
10. Catbird
Best For | Dainty pieces for layering
Ethics & Sustainability | Ethical production in Brooklyn, recycled gold & diamonds, conflict-free stones, gives back via giving fund
Product Range | Rings, earrings, necklaces, bracelets, wedding jewelry
Price Range | $14 (earrings) – $13,650 (prism diamond ring)
The woman-owned and -operated brand Catbird makes its jewelry entirely in-house at the Brooklyn Navy Yard. With more than 40 fairly paid jewelers and artisans on-site, the team crafts dainty, delicate, and stunning pieces of jewelry for everyday wear and beyond, as well as stocking other artisan jewelry like engagement and wedding rings. All pieces use recycled gold and conflict-free, responsibly sourced stones. Plus, the Catbird Giving Fund donates one percent of all sales (not just profits!) to organizations like the ACLU and the Food Bank of New York City.
Catbird Review | “Thank you! I must say out of all the jewelry companies I have ordered from catbird has the best customer service:) You guys are always so helpful and get back to any questions asked so fast. Thank you again.” – J. [See all reviews]
11. Made by Mary
Best For | Everyday chains you won’t want to take off
Ethics & Sustainability | Ethically sourced, fair wages, woman-founded, some made-to-order pieces
Product Range | Necklaces, earrings, rings, bracelets, anklets, bridal jewelry, jewelry sets
Price Range | $22 (stud earring) – $300 (solid 14K gold chain necklace)
With over 40,000 five-star reviews, you know we had to check out Made by Mary. These thoughtful, beautiful pieces are artisan-made and so light and lovely––most customers report never wanting to take them off. So the brand created an option to make it permanent! Book an appointment in their Bluffdale, Utah studio to have the links of your favorite Made by Mary chain welded together in lieu of a traditional clasp. Or, go the traditional route with ready-to-ship pieces that are so comfortable you’ll forget you’re wearing them — until someone stops you to compliment them!
Made By Mary Review | “I have been curating my ring collection for over three years. That entire time, I have been searching for a gold snake ring that is dainty, great quality, textured, and has no stones… this is perfection! Everything I’ve been looking for, and somehow still even more beautiful in person. If you’ve also been on the hunt, this is the one.” – Gillian [See all reviews]
12. Linjer
Best For | Birthstone jewelry
Ethics & Sustainability | Recycled precious metals & ethically sourced gemstones, responsibly made in Europe, carbon-neutral shipping, recycled packaging
Product Range | Rings, earrings, necklaces, bracelets, jewelry sets
Price Range | $18 (stacking ring) – $3,095 (diamond tennis bracelet)
For lovers of birthstone jewelry, you’re in luck. Linjer’s collection of birthstone necklaces, earrings, and bracelets will have you swooning in color! From opal to citrine, and tanzanite to garnet, Linjer makes it easy to find the perfect personalized piece for yourself (or a loved one!). Better yet, sustainability is at the forefront of all Linjer jewelry, with high quality recycled sterling silver, solid gold, and conflict-free diamonds used throughout. Linjer doesn’t only specialize in birthstone pieces, you’ll also be able to shop ethically made gold, silver, diamond, and pearl pieces to help you spice up your daily and special occasion baubles.
Linjer Review | “Exceptional quality at a fraction of the price you would pay for big brands. Very elegant, discreet and beautiful materials” – Sandra [See all reviews]
13. Lisa Says Gah
Best For | One-of-a-kind statement jewelry
Ethics & Sustainability | Ethically produced, many items made in the USA, handmade pieces available
Product Range | Earrings, necklaces
Price Range | $57 (butterfly earrings) – $205 (champagne bottle earrings)
Lisa Says Gah’s eclectic jewelry will have you looking cute and colorful while bringing in all the compliments! Alongside their label, Lisa Says Gah carries USA-owned independent designers that craft kitschy, fun, and adorable jewelry pieces that you won’t find anywhere else. We adore the blown glass earrings inspired by our favorite tasty treats and the puffy heart necklaces that are reminiscent of the 90s. Shop handmade looks here!
Lisa Says Gah Review | “I have been dreaming about these earrings forever and I finally made the purchase! They’re so cute and obviously unique but still subtle.” – Kat [See all reviews]
14. AMYO
Best For | Modular jewelry
Ethics & Sustainability | US-sourced materials & supplies, ethically produced, fair wages, handmade
Product Range | Earrings, necklaces, rings, bracelets, anklets, body chains, nose jewelry
Price Range | $34 (ear cuff) – $589 (square hoop earrings)
AMYO stands for “Accessories Make Your Outfit”, and we have to agree! Finding foolproof jewelry that’ll take your outfit to the next level can sometimes feel few and far between, but AMYO makes it easy. You’ll find everything from engraved pieces, bridal jewelry, statement jewelry, and more. AMYO even offers curated gift guides that make it easy to shop for yourself or a loved one for the right occasion. Sometimes all it takes is adding a peekaboo anklet or a delicate nose stud to elevate your outfit. Each piece is sourced and ethically produced in the USA.
AMYO Review | “I’m so impressed by the quality and comfort of these earrings. These are going to be my new everyday earrings. The shine and clarity of the stone is beautiful, love them!” – Jen [See all reviews]
15. Cuyana
Best For | Brass jewelry
Ethics & Sustainability | Handmade sustainably in the USA, recycled brass, offsets carbon emissions
Product Range | Earrings, necklaces
Price Range | $78 (stud earrings) – $228 (double chain necklace)
We look to Cuyana to put the perfect finishing touches on our everyday looks. The brand’s sustainably made elegant jewelry is crafted with both recycled brass and 14K plated gold, giving it a natural lived-in feel. (The use of recycled brass in their jewelry moves away from traditional mined metals, but still offers all the benefits!) We suggest checking out the mini hoop earrings for comfy and lightweight everyday wear. Cuyana also offers earring embellishments, allowing you to mix and match add-ons to your classic hoops, like baroque pearls or solid spheres. Try an asymmetrical look, by adding an embellishment to a single earring. Très chic!
Cuyana Review | “This has been my favorite item purchased from Cuyana. I love have versatile it is! Can be styled different ways or worn as a necklace and bracelet. I regret not buying an embellishment to go with it and will in the future! I would love the option to buy and additional link to add more than one embellishment at a time as well.” – Brianna C. [See all reviews]
Featured image is by The Good Trade with pieces from Catori Life and Hello Adorn
