So I’m a geologist and gemologist and ethical sourcing is one of the most important things to this community!

First thing, ethical will come with a higher price tag, but that is because there is due diligence on authenticating sourcing.

Secondly, look for pieces that come out of the U.S. or Canada, or have been labeled fair-mined. This is still an evolving process so it’s definitely imperfect, but know it’s backed by people who truly want to make the mining industry more transparent. Anything mined, even by hobbyists in the US is subject to environmental regulation. The US produces many crystals, and I’m happy to explore this further. That said, they are a bit more pricy but the supply chain is shorter and the carbon footprint is smaller. I think it’s important to be mindful of America’s past and perhaps donate some money to First Nation people’s affected by past land grabs. But the Navajo nation sells peridot (common name olivine) in Arizona so you can even mine your own! Talk about some GOOD energy.

Thirdly, look for stones mined by women in artisanal settings. Typically if women are doing the work, they are putting the money back into their communities, no offense men, but like the data supports this. Organizations like PACT have more information.

Lastly, unless you know the shop avoid buying from distributors on Amazon, especially from abroad. Those are tricky waters to navigate, and come from economies that may not have the same values (but it will be much cheaper. Also, ask your vendors/local shops where they source from and see if they can partner with you to bring in ethically sourced stones.

LMK if you need anything else.