Don't let the name fool you. This isn't costume jewelry made out of bark and seed pods. This is BEAUTIFUL GOLD jewelry in FABULOUS DESIGNS that will really wow you if you have an eye for quality.

So what makes it "Ecojewelry"? The gold they use in their work has been melted down from pre-existing pieces, with the goal of building awareness of the ecological and social hazards of current mining practices. The following copy comes from their website:

Throughout history, jewelry has held a special place in the fabric of human culture. Unfortunately, industrial methods of extracting jewelry’s precious metals and gems from the earth damage the land and endanger ecosystems. Further, industrial values frequently reduce the labor component of production to the level of a cog in a machine.

Because of the cultural importance of jewelry, it is impractical to impose an end to its use. Efforts to create startling change rarely achieve significant impact. Long-term progress is realized when consumers internalize new values and infuse them into custom.

Our greater goal at greenKarat is to end destructive gold and diamond mining. We do not, however, strive to force that change through radical activism. While activist organizations play a critically important role in educating and motivating consumers, we believe that widespread and permanent change will ultimately occur through the voice of consumer buying decisions.

Our mission is to provide an ecologically and socially responsible jewelry alternative to those who seek change. We want to help you, in some small way, become part of the permanent solution. Together we can make a difference.

So if you're shopping for jewelry this holiday season - or any time in the future - please consider greenKarat. Also, if you are considering a diamond purchase, please read greenKarat's page on gem mining practices. You CAN buy REAL diamonds that are both ecologically and socially sound.

Or consider recycling your own jewelry into something new. Maybe you have a gem you love in a setting you no longer especially care for. Or maybe you have inherited some jewelry that has great sentimental value but doesn't suit your personal taste. Either way, an experienced jeweler can create a unique design just for you out of these raw materials. So you can finally take that special keepsake out of your jewelry box and WEAR it!

Whether you buy your jewelry from greenKarat or have a local jeweler make you something special out of a piece (or pieces) you already have, you'll feel better knowing you're wearing something beautiful AND making a difference.