Ethical Sourcing Policy

Introduction

Valerio Jewellery is the eponymous brand founded by Greg Valerio MBE in 2008, a globally recognised pioneer in ethical jewellery. For over 30 years, Greg has championed transparency, fairness, and sustainability in the jewellery industry, shaping international standards, supply chains and inspiring change. His ground-breaking work has earned numerous accolades, including:

• An MBE for services to Fairtrade and ethical jewellery.
• The Observer Ethical Award for campaigning excellence.
• Recognition as one of the world’s leading voices in responsible jewellery sourcing by industry bodies and NGOs.

As the world’s leading and knowledgeable ethical jeweller, Valerio Jewellery encapsulates decades of expertise in responsible sourcing and artisanal craftsmanship, creating the world’s purest jewellery without compromise. Our mission is simple: to craft exceptional jewellery that reflects beauty, integrity, and respect for people and the planet. This policy framework sets out the principles that guide every decision we make, ensuring that our creations uphold the highest ethical standards.

1. Precious Metals: Fairtrade Gold and Recycled Platinum & Silver

We exclusively source:

• Fairtrade-certified gold, guaranteeing that the gold in our jewellery is mined under strict social, environmental, and economic standards.
• Recycled platinum and silver, reducing the need for new mining and minimising environmental impact.

Fairtrade certification ensures fair wages, safe working conditions, and environmental protection, while recycled metals help us close the loop on resource use and reduce carbon emissions.

2. Diamonds: Lab-Grown as Default or Fully Traceable Natural

Our default choice for diamonds is lab-grown, offering a sustainable and conflict-free alternative with minimal environmental impact.

When natural diamonds are requested, we ensure:

• Full traceability from mine to market.
• Compliance with the Kimberley Process, which prevents the trade of conflict diamonds.
• Preference for suppliers who go beyond Kimberley standards, supporting ethical labour and environmental stewardship.

3. Coloured Gemstones: Responsible Artisan Mining

We source coloured gemstones with a focus on:

• Responsible artisan mining cooperatives that uphold fair labour practices.
• Partnerships with indigenous communities, ensuring respect for cultural heritage and equitable benefit-sharing.
• Our gemstones are selected from suppliers who prioritize environmental care, community development, and traceability. We actively avoid stones linked to exploitation or ecological harm.

4. British Craftsmanship and Authenticity

Every piece of Valerio Jewellery is:

• Made in Britain and hand-finished by skilled artisan jewellers.
• Stamped with the Birmingham Assay Office Hallmark, guaranteeing metal purity and authenticity.
• Features the GV maker’s mark and the Valerio signature, symbols of quality and ethical integrity.

5. Sustainable Packaging

Our packaging reflects the same ethical principles as our jewellery:

• Made from vegetable-tanned leather, a natural and eco-friendly alternative to chemically treated materials.
• Produced by women’s cooperatives, promoting gender equality and economic empowerment.

This approach minimises environmental impact while supporting social progress.

6. Supplier Vetting Process

To maintain the integrity of our supply chain, we implement a rigorous supplier vetting process:

• Certification Verification: All suppliers must provide valid documentation for Fairtrade, recycled metal sourcing, Kimberley Process compliance, or equivalent ethical certifications.
• Traceability Audits: We require full disclosure of the supply chain, from mine or lab to finished product, and conduct periodic audits to verify accuracy.
• Social & Environmental Standards: Suppliers must demonstrate adherence to fair labour practices, safe working conditions, and environmentally responsible operations.
• Continuous Monitoring: We maintain ongoing relationships with suppliers, reviewing compliance annually and addressing any concerns promptly.
• Zero Tolerance Policy: Any supplier found engaging in unethical practices, including child labour, unsafe conditions, or environmental harm, will be immediately removed from our network.

Our Promise

Valerio Jewellery stands for more than beauty—it stands for justice, sustainability, and respect. By adhering to this policy, we ensure that every creation tells a story of integrity and care, from the mine to the maker to you.

For further details please visit Greg Valerio Blog Page