Jeweller - October 2023

“With Clear Neutral, we’re striving
to make this complex process as
transparent and accessible as possible
for both retailers and consumers.”
The consumer market is growing
increasingly discerning. Recent studies
indicate that a staggering 90%* of
global consumers express a preference
for responsibly sourced products.
Moreover, 83%* are willing to dig a little
deeper into their pockets for ethically
produced merchandise.
When it comes to the jewellery sector,
the statistics are equally revealing.
An impressive 68% of Millennial and
Generation Z consumers say that
sustainability concerns could be a
deal-breaker in purchasing diamond
jewellery, according to a recent Bain &
Company survey on the global diamond
industry.
Embracing sustainable practices isn’t
just about saving the planet; it’s good
for business.
A 2023 Deloitte report revealed that
72% of employees in retail organisations
Ultimately, the journey
towards ethical
perfection is far from
over. Clear Neutral and
other initiatives like
it offer an incredible
opportunity for the
jewellery industry to
embrace responsible
practices.
with leading sustainability programs
are committed to their current jobs.
Buyers like Jake Goodwin also
appreciate an ethically sound supply
chain. “It’s more than just a gem; it’s a
statement of who I am,” he says.
The sentiment echoes among
consumers like Ainsley Caulfield, who
notes, “I love the idea of wearing a
diamond that’s not only beautiful but
also kinder to our planet.”
Jewellers themselves are taking notice
of the growing ethical concerns.
“More and more people are asking
about lab-grown diamonds. They
love that they’re more sustainable,
but they’re also concerned about the
energy used to produce them,” says
Jordan Cullen, Managing Director of
Cullen Jewellery.
“We need to ensure we’re addressing
those concerns head-on.”
Ultimately, the journey towards ethical
perfection is far from over. Clear Neutral
and other initiatives like it offer an
incredible opportunity for the jewellery
industry to embrace responsible
practices.
The opaquely symbiotic relationship
between jewellers, consumers, and the
environment will continue to evolve.
What seems clear, though, is that the
path towards ethical consumption and
responsible retailing is not just a trend.
It’s a necessary evolution that resonates
deeply with the buyers, employees,
and society at large.