This Afghani girl’s rights to independence and education are supported by proceeds made from fine locally crafted jewelry, through a charity called Turquoise Mountain, a humanitarian foundation based in Kabul. Artist anthropologist PIPPA SMALL creates heavenly jewelry in partnership with Turquoise Mountain. By employing Afghani women in her studio, Pippa promotes women’s independence in a country where they are overtly persecuted. Sixty percent of profits go to the charity; the rest go to the artisans.

True Gems: Luxury Jewelry with a Purpose

“Yes, your jewelry choices make a difference. When you invest in ethical, heirloom-quality jewelry, you’re also investing in the future. Your purchase supports a creative community of like-minded humanitarians, out there doing important work.” - Zoe Helene, Organic Spa Magazine

RESOURCES

Want to learn more? Ready to unravel that ball of string? Open that Pandora’s box? Good for you! But expect more of the same: Man’s inhumanity toward man and nature; complex, deep-rooted global issues fueled by power and greed; and a great deal of dirty money. But, there's good news. Jewelry professionals around the world are working together to create systems that promote positive change. Check out these online resources:

Fair Trade Gems (www.fairtradegems.com)
No Dirty Gold (www.nodirtygold.org)
Fair Trade Federation (www.fairtradefederation.org)
Global Witness (www.globalwitness.org)
Ethical Metalsmiths (www.ethicalmetalsmiths.org)
Kimberley Process (www.KimberleyProcess.com)
Turquoise Mountain (www.turquoisemountain.org)
Hoover & Strong's Harmony Green Metals (www.hooverandstrong.com)