Research Topic

How can jewellery brands and policy makers take informed and effective decisions on ethical sourcing of precious materials.

Supervisor

Jose Bento da Silva, Mark Johnson

Summary of Research Area

The jewellery industry is a complex and globally dispersed system, often entangled in allegations of unethical and environmentally harmful precious metals and gemstone sourcing. While regulations, industry certifications, and technological solutions aim to improve conditions, they frequently overlook the realities of the people at the core of the industry—miners, processing workers, and affected communities. Key challenges include varying cultural perceptions of ethics, the industry's entanglement with criminal networks and corruption in many resource-rich countries, and a disconnect between policymakers, industry leaders, and those directly experiencing these issues.

This research examines how jewellery brands and policymakers can make informed and therefore effective decisions on ethical and responsible sourcing by assessing the effectiveness of current policies and technological solutions, as well as the lived experiences of those most affected. It aims to critically explore how narratives shape regulations and assess whether meaningful change is possible within the existing system.

By bringing forward the real stories of the most vulnerable stakeholders in the jewellery value chain, this research seeks to engage decision-makers, brands and consumers in a critical examination of these issues, encouraging them to make more informed and responsible choices that support those most affected and contribute to a more ethical, transparent, and socially responsible industry.