Working with Recycled Metal: Sustainability in My Jewelry Studio

As a metalsmith, sustainability is always on my mind. Every piece of jewelry I create is not just about beauty and craftsmanship—it’s also about being mindful of where my materials come from and how they are used. That’s why I prioritize working with recycled metal, ensuring that my jewelry is both high-quality and environmentally responsible.

Where I Source My Metal

I purchase my metal from trusted suppliers like Rio Grande and Stuller, both of which offer responsibly sourced, recycled metals. These suppliers refine and reprocess precious metals from various industries, keeping silver, gold, and other materials in circulation rather than relying solely on newly mined resources. By choosing recycled metal, I can reduce my environmental footprint while still maintaining the integrity and durability that fine jewelry requires.

Melting Down My Own Scrap

In addition to purchasing recycled metal, I take my own sustainability efforts a step further by melting down my scrap silver and gold to use in new pieces. When I have enough leftover material from previous projects, I refine it myself in the studio, giving it a second life. This not only minimizes waste but also adds a unique element to my work—knowing that each piece carries a bit of history from my past creations.

Sending Metal Dust to a Refiner

Even the smallest specks of silver dust don’t go to waste in my studio. After a while, metal filings and dust accumulate from sawing, filing, and polishing. When I have too much to recycle on my own, I send it to a professional refiner who can process and return it as usable metal. This ensures that no silver or gold goes unused, making my practice as sustainable as possible.

Why Recycled Metal Matters

Mining for precious metals can have a significant environmental and ethical impact, from habitat destruction to unfair labor practices. By choosing recycled metals, I can do my part to lessen the demand for newly mined resources and promote responsible practices in the jewelry industry.

When you wear a piece of my jewelry, you’re not just wearing something beautiful—you’re wearing something consciously made, with sustainability and ethical sourcing at its core.

Supporting Sustainable Jewelry

If you’re looking to make more eco-conscious choices with your jewelry, consider supporting small makers who prioritize recycled metals and ethical sourcing. Every decision, from where materials are sourced to how they’re used, makes a difference in reducing waste and promoting sustainability in the jewelry industry.

Thank you for being part of this journey with me—choosing handmade, thoughtfully crafted jewelry is one more way to support sustainability and responsible craftsmanship!