S U S T A I N A B I L I T Y

The environmental impact of Nicola’s craft is incredibly important to her as a maker and an individual. Therefore there are several ways in which Nicola chooses her materials to lessen the impact of her work. The nature of the craft means that resources are being used up. Nicola is concious of trying to minimise impact and is always keen to hear of new ways in which she can do this. If you have any suggestions, please contact her directly! Nicola will always discuss the impact of your designs, and the options that you have.

Reusing Gold - Perhaps the most earth-friendly way is using client’s own materials! Nicola often smelts down customer’s metal to create something new.

Single Mine Origin Gold - This means that the gold that Nicola uses is fully traceable, usually sourced via Betts Metals.

Recycled Gold and Silver - All of Nicola’s silver is 100% recycled, usually sourced via Cooksonsgold. Recycled gold is also an option for clients, although the mined origin is untraceable once smelted.

Created Stones - When appropriate, Nicola uses created stones. These are chemically identical to mined stones, but have been formed in a laboratory.

Responsibly Mined Stones - When using mined stones, Nicola uses trusted suppliers who are able to verify the scale and impact of the mines they source from, as well as the quality of the labour used.

Eco Resin - When using resin for keepsake jewels, Nicola uses eco resin, usually sourced from Resin8.

Packaging - My logo boxes are recyclable. Please note that the old style boxes have foam inserts in. Nicola is transitioning to a more sustainable alternative. When posting, brown parcel tape and recyclable boxes are used, along with shredded tissue. All marketing materials are also fully recyclable. All quotes are paperless via email, unless specifically requested otherwise. If posting to outsourced services such as hallmarking, Nicola reuses old packaging.

Working Practice - The nature of working with metals at great temperatures means that gas is needed as well as some chemicals. Nicola often works communally in Alloy, reducing the amount of resources needed for each maker. The chemicals used are food-safe, but Nicola is aiming to move away from harsh chemical treatments in favour of more natural ones, such as using citric acid to clean her metal. Gas is purchased through BOC, but Nicola also uses a micro torch which produces gas only when being used. All electricity at Nicola’s home studio, when used, is powered by solar electricity.