It's the thought that counts, right? More and more of us are becoming concerned with protecting both the people that live in the world and the environment we live in. The great news is that- in jewelry terms- standards are getting higher all the time. For example in 2003 the Kimberley Process Certification Scheme (KPCS) was laid out, meaning that only diamonds that conform to that standard have been traded to prevent 'conflict diamonds' from entering the worldwide market. In 2011 the Fairtrade and Fairmined certification was formed: a joint effort between Fairtrade International (FLO) and the Alliance for Responsible Mining (ARM), combining their expertise to enable artisanal and small-scale miners (ASM) to improve their livelihoods. Today we've collected some of our favorite jewelry companies who trade to ethical, fair-trade standards. Another good thing is that many of these designers are contemporary, out-of-the-box thinkers, and therefore have some pretty unique designs. A win-win? We think so!

1. Erica Sharpe | 2. Chocolate Couture | 3. Diana Porter | 4. Ingle and Rhode | 5. Fifi Bijoux | 6. Element | 7. Element | Feature Image: April Doubleday

For more info on the standards involved in precious metal mining, see Fairgold and Fairmined. Happy weekend!