Plastic Jewellery Doesn't Have To Cost The Earth

We're all for cutting back on plastic, especially single-use products. But, we also believe that plastic doesn't have to cost the earth, and both crafters and consumers have an important role to play when it comes to sustainability.

We look for jewellers who work with recycled materials, who reuse and repurpose their waste in creative ways. We think about the carbon footprint of our jewellery, and we love makers who use lightweight materials and manufacture in the UK.

But, manufacturing is only half of the story. How we shop and consume is just as important. We've developed unhealthy habits, and we're recovering from years of throw-away culture. Sustainability starts with us and our attitude towards our possessions. If we shop carefully, pick pieces we love, care for them correctly and keep them for years, we can help reduce the amount of plastic going to landfills.

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1. Do Your Research

As a material, plastic is durable and diverse. It's lightweight, and its production uses less water than some of the more traditionally sustainable materials. It can be reused, sometimes recycled, and is easily moulded into different shapes and sizes. These qualities make it a popular choice for many contemporary jewellery makers.

Buying plastic doesn't necessarily mean you're buying un-sustainably. There are many plastic jewellery makers who go to great lengths to ensure their production process is as green as it can be. Do your research and pick your brands and pieces wisely.

Iconic brand, Tatty Devine, works with acrylic and is aiming to have 75% of jewellery in their core collections made from recycled acrylic, bioplastic or FSC® Wood by 2025. Energy used to make their jewellery is 100% matched by renewable sources, their packaging is completely recyclable and they use small batch production. 

The brand has pledged to substantially reduce waste generation through prevention, reduction, recycling and reuse by 2030. Awarded a Silver recycling score by First Mile, Tatty make pieces that are designed for life, crafted with longevity in mind. They offer a UK based repair service so you can love your jewellery for longer and never have to send broken pieces to landfill.

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2. Choose Carefully

If you don't love it, don't buy it. If you're spending your hard-earned dollar and adding some new plastic pieces to your collection, get something that you're going to wear today, tomorrow and every day after that! The easiest way to cut back on plastic waste is to cut back on buying high quantities of low-quality items. Buy unique jewellery, crafted by skilled makers. They look great, they're gentler on the planet and they're built to last.

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3. Be Responsible

Plastic is undeniably bad for our planet. It can take thousands of years to break down and microplastics are already distributed widely across our marine habitats. We must buy responsibly, and choose brands that choose sustainability. Small changes make a big difference.

Seek out jewellers who make in small batches and manufacture in the UK, like Tatty Devine. Check that their packaging is recycled and recyclable, and that they provide safe and happy conditions for their workers.

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4. Repair, Re-gift or Donate

It's served you well over the years, but that plastic necklace that once sparked joy just doesn't quite do it for you anymore? We promise there's someone out there waiting to give it as much love, loyalty and attention as you have.

It's so important that we don't chuck our plastic jewellery in the bin when we've had enough of it. No one wants to be that guy. Second-hand has never been more popular, so why not re-gift your gorgeous plastic pretties!

You probably have a pal that's complimented it in the past, right? Wrap it up and gift it to them on their next birthday. And if you don't know anyone who has the same taste as you, donate it to charity. Imagine finding a gorgeous piece of Tatty in your local thrift store!

If you still adore your acrylic piece but it fell victim to your chain-snapping, pendant cracking ways, do not despair! Many of the best brands offer a repair service, and they'll have your signature piece looking as good as new in no time.

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5. Recycle or Repurpose

If you're a little bit creative, there are many ways to transform and repurpose old jewellery. Disassemble and reuse parts. Turn that old necklace into a brooch. Lost one earring? Put the other on a chain and wear it as a pendant! If you're super arty, smash up your acrylic and set it in resin to create new, terrazzo-effect pieces.

If you don't have a creative bone in your body, it's broken beyond repair or you're unable to donate, the bin still isn't your only option. Many plastics are recyclable, and whilst the process is a little trickier, even virgin acrylic can be refined at some recycling centres. If your local recycling services won't collect, drop them off at the nearest facility.

Like what you've seen? View our full range of carefully curated eco-friendly gifts here.

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