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The Golden Revolution: Ethical Jewelry and the Power of Recycled Gold

Recycled gold is an excellent option for ethical gold, though it does not help the modern miners around the world. FairTrade Gold will be explored in a different journal entry.

The Golden Revolution: Ethical Jewelry and the Power of Recycled Gold

In a world where love stories are as unique as fingerprints, one thing remains constant: the power of an engagement ring to symbolize lifelong commitment. 

But what if we told you this timeless tradition could also be ethically conscious and sustainable? 

Say hello to the future of love–ethical jewelry! 

Join us on a journey where beauty meets responsibility and discover how these sparkling symbols hold the promise of forever and a greener tomorrow.


What is Recycled Gold, and Why is it an Ethical Choice?

Simply put, recycled gold is gold that’s been used before. It can be reclaimed from old jewelry, electronics, industrial waste, or even teeth and refined again. 

It has the same quality and purity as newly mined gold but without the negative eco and social impacts.

The golden problem

Gold mining produces about 1 ton of carbon dioxide per ounce of gold. It also yields other pollutants such as mercury, cyanide, and arsenic. 

Gold mining consumes large amounts of water and energy and often displaces communities and wildlife.

Recycling to the rescue

When gold is recycled, there is a lower demand for new gold to be mined. 

This helps to conserve natural resources and protect human rights. 

By choosing recycled gold for your engagement ring, you support a circular economy that minimizes waste and maximizes value.

 

How Recycled Diamonds Complement Recycled Gold

Like recycled gold, recycled diamonds are diamonds that have been used before. 

They can be sourced from jewelry or industrial applications and are recut into new settings. 

Recycled diamonds have the same quality and brilliance as newly mined diamonds but without ethical issues, since no new labor or energy is used to source them. 

The diamond mining industry struggles with problems like child labor, conflict funding, human rights violations, and environmental ruin. There are certifications set up like the Kimberly Accord to limit these abuses but it's not a perfect system. Choosing reclaimed means you can truly trust you did not involve yourself with new mining.


How Young in the Mountains Creates Ethical Jewelry with Recycled Gold and Diamonds

Are you looking for ethical jewelry that combines recycled gold and diamonds with other sustainable materials? 

You have found the right jeweler!  Young in the Mountains!

We are a woman-owned business that creates handmade jewelry, mixing sustainability and beauty. 

We use recycled gold and other recycled materials whenever possible. From January 1st of  2022, all our round, white, melee stones have been recycled diamonds. 

We also reduce our footprint by using USA-mined inlay materials like turquoise, jaspers, and agate, etc. These USA-based miners also practice fair mining techniques and respect the land.

From miner-direct stones to a 100% wind-powered production facility in our Denver studio and more, we’re continuously finding new ways to ensure we create ethical jewelry. 

Why You Should Choose Ethical Jewelry for Your Engagement Ring

Choosing ethical jewelry for your engagement ring is not only good for the planet but also for you. 

By selecting recycled gold and diamonds, and other responsibly sourced materials, you can let your jewelry do the value-talking—literally and figuratively. 

You’re also showing your partner that you care about their future and yours together as a couple. 

After all, an engagement ring symbolizes love and commitment now and for the future. 

So, why not make it a ring that reflects your shared vision of a better world?

Ethical jewelry is not just a trend; it’s a revolution. 

Join us in making a difference with your engagement ring today!

Visit Young in the Mountains, and find your perfect engagement ring.

Shop Recycled Gold Stacking Bands

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    Illustration of brush in a cup for jewelry care

    Cleaning Your YITM Jewelry

    Gold, Diamonds & Sapphires
    These materials are the most durable and easiest to clean. Use warm water, a small amount of mild dish soap, and a soft toothbrush to gently remove buildup. Rinse thoroughly and dry with a soft, lint-free cloth. Avoid harsh chemicals, and abrasive materials. Jewelry with exclusively gold and diamonds or sapphires can go in ultrasonic cleaners. The gold parts of the jewelry can be shined with the polishing cloth included in all YITM orders. 

    Inlay Jewelry
    Inlay pieces require special care. Do not soak or submerge in water. Do not put in an ultrasonic machine. Clean gently with a soft, dry cloth only. Moisture and chemicals can occasionally change the color composition of soft turquoise and variscite stones. Remove when applying lotion, oil, cleaning or swimming. The gold parts of the jewelry can be cleaned with the polishing cloth included in all YITM orders. 

    Sunstones, Tourmaline, Topaz, Garnet, Amethyst or Peridot
    These stones are more delicate. We do not use them in rings for this reason. If these stones are in your other YITM styles, do not use ultrasonic cleaners, steam, or harsh cleaners. Wipe gently with a soft, slightly damp cloth if needed, then dry immediately. The gold parts of the jewelry can be cleaned with the polishing cloth included in all YITM orders. 


    Storage & Long-Term Care

    Store each piece separately to prevent scratching, ideally in a soft pouch or lined jewelry box. Keep jewelry away from humidity, extreme temperatures, and direct sunlight. Periodic professional inspections are recommended for rings worn regularly.

    For everyday, forever wear, we recommend a simple pure gold band. Our inlay and accent jewelry is best worn as the occasion permits. Please visit our FAQ page for more detailed care guidance.

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Sentimental Information

We love hearing your stories! This helps us connect with you while we are crafting your piece. It makes you real to us. The power of jewelry is to connect us, to make us remember, and honor an experience. This beauty we create is not surface deep, our jewelry is here to add sentiment into our daily lives. Please, oh please, give us a few words about you, and your story. It will make our hearts full!

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