Crafting Eco-Conscious Silver Jewellery: The Materials

At the heart of every piece of jewellery is a story, a tale of creativity, sustainability, and ethical craftsmanship. Here, at Hazel's Jewellery Shop, I'm not just creating accessories; I'm crafting wearable art with a conscience.

Let's dive into the materials that make this eco-conscious silver jewellery not just beautiful but meaningful.

Handmade silver butterfly necklace inspired by the Secret Garden film

The Magic of Silver Clay

Our primary medium, silver clay, is truly remarkable. Made of .999 fine silver (often referred to as "pure silver"), this innovative material starts its life as recycled silver. By reusing silver from old photography materials and medical instruments, it gives what was once discarded a new lease on life. When this clay is fired, it transforms into solid silver, a process that not only fascinates but offers creative freedom. Imagine starting with a simple ball of clay and ending with a fine silver masterpiece, that's the journey of every piece I create.

Sterling Silver

For elements requiring a bit more resilience, such as ring bands and earring hooks, I turn to sterling silver (.925). This alloy includes a small fraction of another metal, typically copper, making it slightly harder than fine silver. All our sterling silver components are made from recycled materials, ensuring that our creations are as sustainable as they are stunning.

Gems with a Conscience

The gemstones you’ll find in Hazel’s Jewellery Shop jewellery are chosen with care and respect for the earth. Wherever possible, I use secondhand gemstones, giving previously loved stones a new life in a fresh design.

When I need to source something specific, I turn to ethical suppliers who are committed to responsible practices. This way, every piece carries not just a beautiful sparkle, but a more thoughtful and considered approach to jewellery making.

A Touch of Patina

To accentuate the intricate details of our designs, I use liver of sulfur to oxidise the silver. This age-old technique darkens the recesses of the designs, allowing the raised areas to be polished up & show off all the details. The solution we use is also used in Japan as a skin care routine for its therapeutic properties, ensuring that our patina process is free from harsh chemicals.

My Promise to You

Each piece of jewellery from Hazel's Jewellery Shop is a testament to ethical beauty and craftsmanship. By choosing recycled silver, ethically sourced gemstones, and eco-friendly processes, I promise you jewellery that not only looks good but does good too.

I invite you to join the inner circle to get exclusive early access to our new designs before anyone else does & get a free jewellery care guide!

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