Sustainable Jewelry at Belle Solaire
At Belle Solaire, we believe that beauty and responsibility go hand in hand.
Our jewelry and accessories collections are designed to be worn often and appreciated for years. From the materials we choose to the partners we work with, each decision is guided by a commitment to thoughtful design, responsible production, and long-lasting quality.
We use recycled sterling silver whenever possible, responsibly sourced gemstones, and durable plant-based materials such as cellulose acetate. By working with trusted manufacturing partners and producing in smaller batches, Belle Solaire aims to support responsible craftsmanship while reducing unnecessary waste.
We continuously review our materials, partners, and production practices to improve transparency, strengthen responsible sourcing, and reduce unnecessary waste wherever possible.
Key Sustainability Highlights
At Belle Solaire, sustainability focuses on thoughtful materials, responsible production, and long-lasting design.
- Jewelry crafted from recycled 925 sterling silver whenever possible
- 18k gold vermeil (2.5 microns) for durability and longevity
- Responsibly sourced gemstones
- Hair accessories and sunglasses made from plant-based cellulose acetate
- Small-batch production to help reduce unnecessary 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 responsible gemstone sourcing, selecting stones not only for their beauty but also for responsible 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.
What is Gold Vermeil?
Gold vermeil (pronounced “ver-may”) is a high-quality form of gold plating used in fine jewelry. To qualify as gold vermeil, the base metal must be sterling silver and the gold layer must meet a minimum thickness standard.
Belle Solaire jewelry uses sterling silver finished with a 2.5 micron layer of 18k gold, creating a durable and high-quality alternative positioned between solid gold and fashion jewelry.
You can explore Belle Solaire gold vermeil jewelry in our Jewelry Catalogue.
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 responsible manufacturing.
The workshop combines traditional jewelry techniques with modern production standards and structured quality control.
Recognized Certifications & Standards
Our jewelry partner participates in internationally recognized frameworks supporting responsible sourcing, ethical working conditions, and environmental accountability.
Responsible Jewellery Council (RJC)
Independent verification of responsible 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 responsible 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 Responsibility in Production
Environmental responsibility is 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 – Responsible Production 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 – Responsible 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 unnecessary overstock
Responsible Small-Batch Production
Belle Solaire pieces are produced in smaller batches to reduce unnecessary waste and maintain consistent quality.
This slower and more intentional production model helps us avoid overproduction 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 responsibility includes 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 waste and responsible production practices
- Stronger long-term manufacturing partnerships
- Materials and designs that support longevity
If you would like to learn more about our materials, craftsmanship, and production practices, you can visit our FAQ page.
We believe that jewelry and accessories should be made with care, worn often, and appreciated for years.
Better choices. Beautiful design. True to you.
Belle Solaire is here to make style more meaningful — and more mindful.
Explore the full Belle Solaire collection in our Jewelry Catalogue.