Sustainable Jewelry - Materials & Production at Belle Solaire
From the materials we choose to the partners we work with, each decision is guided by thoughtful design, carefull manufacturing, and long-lasting quality.
We prioritize high-quality materials such as recycled sterling silver, responsibly sourced gemstones, and durable plant-based materials like cellulose acetate. By working with trusted manufacturing partners and producing in smaller batches, Belle Solaire supports skilled craftsmanship while helping minimize unnecessary waste.
Key Sustainability Highlights
- Jewelry crafted from recycled 925 sterling silver whenever possible
- 18k gold vermeil (2.5 microns) for durability and longevity
- Carefully sourced gemstones
- Hair accessories and sunglasses made from plant-based cellulose acetate
- Small-batch production to help minimize overproduction
- Dual quality control, both at the production site and again in Basel
Thoughtful Materials
The materials we choose play an important role in both the quality and the environmental impact of our designs.
Our jewelry is crafted from 925 sterling silver, using recycled silver whenever possible, and finished with 18k gold vermeil (2.5 microns) — a durable and high-quality alternative positioned between solid gold and fashion jewelry.
Gold vermeil uses a thick layer of real gold over sterling silver, allowing us to create pieces that offer the look and feel of fine jewelry while remaining lighter and more accessible.
We work with partners who prioritize careful gemstone sourcing, selecting stones not only for their beauty but also for ethical production practices.
Our hair accessories and sunglasses are made from cellulose acetate, a plant-based material derived from renewable sources such as wood pulp and cotton. It is strong, lightweight, and a more considered alternative to petroleum-based plastics, offering durability, comfort, and rich color depth.
If you would like to learn more about gold vermeil, cellulose acetate, and our material choices, please visit our FAQ page.
Responsible Jewelry Production – Jaipur, India
Our jewelry is produced by a fourth-generation family-owned manufacturer in Jaipur, India, a region known for its long tradition of jewelry craftsmanship.
We chose this partner not only for technical expertise in gold vermeil production but also for shared values and a long-term commitment to high manufacturing standards.
The workshop combines traditional jewelry craftsmanship with modern production processes and structured quality control.
Recognized Certifications & Standards
Our jewelry partner participates in internationally recognized frameworks supporting ethical sourcing, fair working conditions, and environmental accountability.
- Responsible Jewellery Council (RJC): Independent verification of practices across the jewelry supply chain.
- Sedex (SMETA Audit Framework): Ethical trade transparency covering labor standards, health and safety, environmental practices, and business ethics.
- Bureau Veritas Certification: Third-party audited compliance standards.
- GJEPC Membership: India’s official Gem & Jewellery Export Promotion Council.
Together these frameworks support labor rights, traceability, environmental management, and transparent sourcing practices.
Social Responsibility & Women’s Empowerment
Beyond certifications, our jewelry partner actively invests in social initiatives within the local community.
- Employment opportunities for women
- Professional training and skills development
- Structured workplace safety standards
- Long-term employment opportunities
In a traditionally male-dominated industry, supporting women’s professional development helps create meaningful and lasting impact.
Environmental Practices in Production
Environmental considerations are integrated into several aspects of the production process.
- Use of recycled silver whenever possible
- Solar energy integration at the manufacturing facility
- Structured waste management systems
- Dual quality control — both at the production site and again in Basel
Hair Accessories – Production Partner in China
Our cellulose acetate hair claw clips are produced by a small family-run manufacturer in China.
The facility is BSCI audited (Business Social Compliance Initiative), a European social compliance framework evaluating:
- Prohibition of child labor
- Prohibition of forced or bonded labor
- Occupational health and safety
- Ethical business conduct
- Environmental protection policies
- Fair working conditions
We work only with partners who follow recognized social compliance standards and demonstrate commitment to continuous improvement.
Sunglasses – Craftsmanship in Italy
Our sunglasses are produced in Southern Italy by an experienced acetate manufacturer with strong environmental practices.
- Use of plant-based cellulose acetate derived from natural fibers
- Solar energy integration
- Waste reduction and recycling initiatives
- Limited production runs to avoid excess inventory
Responsible Small-Batch Production
Belle Solaire pieces are produced in smaller batches to help reduce unnecessary waste and maintain consistent quality.
This slower and more intentional production model allows us to avoid excess production and focus on craftsmanship rather than volume.
Each jewelry piece undergoes quality control at the production site and again in Basel before shipping.
We also offer a 1-year craftsmanship guarantee covering manufacturing defects, because we believe in standing behind the products we create.
Sustainability Is a Journey
Sustainability is not a fixed destination but an ongoing process of improvement.
At Belle Solaire we continue to work toward:
- Greater transparency across our supply chain
- Reduced environmental impact through thoughtful production practices
- Stronger long-term manufacturing partnerships
- Materials and designs that support longevity
We believe that jewelry and accessories should be made with care, worn often, and appreciated for years.
Explore the full Belle Solaire collection in our Catalogue.