Sustainability Ethos

At Maria Lau Jewellery, we believe that beauty and sustainability go hand in hand. Our commitment to ethical practices and eco-friendly materials is at the core of everything we do. However we know that 100% sustainable jewellery does not exist and transparency is important. From the initial design concept to the final piece of jewellery, we strive to minimise our environmental impact and promote positive change in the industry.

  • FRESHWATER PEARLS

    Freshwater pearl farming fosters clean water ecosystems, offering a low-intervention alternative to traditional gemstone mining practices

  • RECYCLED SILVER

    We use recycled silver or eco-silver as much as possible, reducing the impact of mining. It comes from old jewellery, electronics, and more, and is reformed into new pieces.

  • TIMELESS DESIGNS

    Handcrafted in small batches, our timeless designs are made to last - offering lasting elegance for years to come.

At Maria Lau, we are committed to ...

creating timeless, sustainable jewellery. We prioritise people and the planet over profit, ensuring our pieces are made with care and responsibility.

Our Approach

  • Handmade & Made-to-Order: Each piece is crafted in small batches or made-to-order to minimise waste and overproduction.
  • Responsible Sourcing: We source from the UK as much as possible and partner with suppliers who are members of The Responsible Jewellery Council, ensuring ethical and social standards are met.
  • Eco-Friendly Materials: We use recycled silver and eco-silver as much as possible, as well as ethically sourced materials. Our gold-plated/vermeil items ensures a thick gold-plating for a longer lasting finish and we have phased out non-precious plated metals in new designs since 2022.

Materials

  • Recycled Silver: We use recycled silver or eco-silver as much as possible, reducing the impact of mining. The silver is recycled from old jewellery, electronics, medical supplies and more.
  • Gold Vermeil: Our gold-plated sterling silver items are plated at 1-2.5 microns thick for durability, unlike high street jewellery, which is typically flash-plated at 0.5 microns or less.
  • Gemstones: We use deadstock gemstones to reduce waste.
  • Freshwater Pearls: Used for their minimal environmental impact compared to other gemstones.
  • Custom Options: We can work with you to create unique bespoke jewellery using consciously sourced materials such as recycled precious metals and traceable or repurposed gemstones.


Studio Practice

  • Renewable Energy: Our workshop runs entirely on renewable energy.
  • Sustainable Processes: We use non-hazardous chemicals, minimal glues, and recycle materials whenever possible.
  • Eco-Friendly Shipping: Our preferred courier service is with Royal Mail due to their low carbon footprint, and all orders are posted in compostable mailing bags.

Packaging

  • Eco-Friendly Packaging: Our packaging is sourced from the UK, made from recycled materials, and is fully recyclable, with compostable stickers and reusable foam inserts. 

Lifecycle & Aftercare

  • Long-Lasting Jewellery: We design our jewellery to be cherished and passed down. When no longer wanted, it can be recycled, replated or refined.
  • Repair Services: We offer repair and re-stringing services to extend the life of your jewellery. More information here.

Future Goals and Commitments

We are dedicated to continuous improvement and innovation in our sustainability practices. Our future goals include exploring new eco-friendly materials, using recycled and above-ground gemstones, further reducing our carbon footprint, and supporting initiatives that promote environmental and social responsibility in the jewellery industry.

At Maria Lau, sustainability is at the heart of everything we do, ensuring our jewellery not only looks good but does good too.