Japanese ethical jewelry brands to guide to more sustainable fashion

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Jewelry is a great way to enhance our style. And if it’s ethically sourced, that’s even better, right? As sustainability becomes the standard in the fashion industry, jewelry must be part of the discussion. Check out these Japanese ethical jewelry brands that you’re sure to adore!

Classy diamond jewelry by Yuri Sato

With a strong focus on environmental sustainability and ethical practices, this brand avoids participating in the social issues often associated with beautiful jewelry, such as environmental pollution, child labor, rough working conditions or conflict. Instead, Yuri Sato takes a responsible approach by upcycling metal waste from home appliances and recycling diamonds and gold from old jewelry.

The brand primarily offers classy jewelry, including necklaces, earrings and rings, while also featuring chunky chain items that perfectly complement a casual style. Even if your taste changes over time, don’t throw away the jewelry. Yuri Sato, which promotes “circular jewelry making,” collects its own jewelry to upcycle and offers customers a discount on their next purchase in return. This is a great option for those who are searching for jewelry for long-term wear.

Delicate glass jewelry by iriser

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iriser produces exquisite handcrafted glass jewelry as a production base of HARIO Lampwork Factory (you might recognize HARIO as a popular tea- and coffee- ware brand.) In 2019, iriser was launched in Minamisoma, Fukushima Prefecture, an area that had suffered severe damage from the Great Eastern Earthquake in 2011. Following the earthquake, the entire area had to be evacuated, and it remained deserted for five years.

Since there was a lack of infrastructure, and attractive job opportunities in the area at the time, iriser took the initiative to encourage people to return. One of their primary focuses is empowering women by providing support for them to become skilled artisans.

iriser offers a wide range of jewelry, including necklaces, bracelets, earrings and rings. Their delicate and finely crafted pieces are suitable for everyday wear as well as special occasions.

One-of-a-kind pearl jewelry by SEVEN THREE

SEVEN THREE creates unique jewelry featuring “Goldfish-shaped pearls.” These special pearls have been developed in Ise, Mie Prefecture, which is the first place in the world for cultured pearls. Unfortunately, these farmers faced a significant drop in production due to rising ocean temperatures. At that time, the pearl cultivation process took about three years, but only 20% of the pearls turned out to be perfect, leaving the rest to go to waste.

In order to support the struggling farmers, pearls with protrusion were named “Goldfish-shaped pearls,” and they became a new and attractive type of pearl. Since each pearl has its unique characteristics, every jewelry piece is one-of-a-kind. This aspect makes it a perfect choice for those seeking exclusive and distinctive items.

This ethical jewelry is not only sustainable but also stylish. Find your favorite pieces that enhance your look and support your values this summer!