Materials
It is core to the ethos of Natalie Vernazza to consider the environmental and social
aspects of the collections you see here, from the sourcing of raw materials, to the carefully considered packaging that is chosen to present and protect your jewellery.
Below you can find out a bit more about the materials used for all jewellery handmade
at NV, in support of the wider goal that each creation is brought to life with sustainability,
traceability and quality in mind.
Recycled Precious Metals
All precious metal alloys (including 24ct Keum Boo gold foil) used in my work are 100% recycled from trusted suppliers as standard. This supports the preservation of natural resources, whilst using less energy in comparison to producing new materials or mine extraction.
We also offer Single Mine Origin (SMO) Gold for bespoke projects, which is fully traceable to mines accredited with the highest responsibility standards. These mines provide vital social, environmental and cultural support to local communities. I will supply the SMO Batch number for your gold, so you can trace the gold back to single mine and check out all of the amazing community based efforts the mine is involved with.
Click here to read more about the precious metals we most commonly work with.
Ethically Sourced Gemstones
All gemstones featured in my jewellery are ethically sourced.
The suppliers I work with take pride in being able to offer high-quality, responsibly sourced gemstones that are fully traceable, safe in the knowledge that the miners and cutters involved throughout the supply chain have been able to maximise their benefits.
In the Studio
Metalsmithing can be dirty work, but luckily over the decades huge strides have been made in the development of cleaner, more environmentally friendly consumable products in the industry.
I only use polishing compounds that are 100% vegan (compared to the more traditional ones made from animal fat, iron oxide and silica), and always take care to dispose of any potentially harmful bi-waste safely.
All precious metal offcuts, old scraps of sandpaper and even studio dust are meticulously swept up to be recycled or refined, ensuring minimal wastage throughout the process of fabrication.
Packaging
Your jewellery will arrive beautifully presented in sturdy packaging designed for long term use. All packaging at NV is sourced from suppliers who have a proven commitment to sustainability.
With a long list of credentials to boast, the suppliers I have chosen are committed to minimising their carbon footprint by keeping the supply chain small, maximising the use of eco-friendly materials and ensuring that all of their packaging is either recycled, recyclable, reusable or compostable.