Monarc continues to evolve in the most responsible and conscious way we can, with an unwavering commitment to do better. We will continue to challenge industry standards by proactively seeking out and improving on best possible practices. Monarc is very proud to share that our gold is 100% recycled from a certified single mine origin source. 

Monarc has always used fully recycled precious metals from aboveground sources, meaning we do not actively or directly support the extractive mining industry. SMO is a new global standard in responsible gold when currently less than 1% of the world’s gold usage is traceable to its exact origin. The extraction of gold and precious metals can lead to destruction of natural habitats, water pollution, and exploitation of workers. SMO is a traceability system that ensures that the gold produced by a specific mine can be traced from the point of extraction to the final product. This is a system offering transparency and accountability. Monarc goes a step further by only using SMO gold that is already in circulation and has been recycled at least twice.

As a customer, this puts you in the unique position of knowing exactly where the gold you wear has come from and that it's from a 100% recycled source.⁠ All Single Mine Origin pieces carry a special QR code enabling you to find out more about the source of your gold Monarc jewellery. You can contact Monarc to obtain the batch number of your SMO gold jewellery (9 - 18k gold purchases from October 2023 onwards).

Social and Environmental Advantages of SMO Gold:

The benefits of SMO Responsibly Sourced Gold are numerous. It promotes sustainable mining practices to minimise negative environmental impacts, including reducing greenhouse gas emissions, water conservation, and protecting biodiversity. Additionally, it ensures that the rights of workers are respected, including their health and safety, fair wages, and working conditions. It also provides economic benefits to local communities, including job creation and support for local businesses.

Several initiatives have been launched to promote SMO Responsibly Sourced Gold. The Responsible Jewellery Council (RJC) has developed a certification system that verifies the responsible practices of gold mines and their supply chains. The World Gold Council has also launched the Responsible Gold Mining Principles, which offer a framework for responsible gold mining practices. The Alliance for Responsible Mining (ARM) has developed the Fairmined Standard, which ensures that gold is extracted in a way that benefits miners and their communities. 

At Monarc, we hold ourselves and our suppliers and workshops to the highest social and environmental standards, and only partner with those who share our values. As consumers, we can all support this initiative by choosing gold products that only use SMO Responsibly Sourced Gold and encourage other companies to adopt responsible mining practices. If a jewellery brand you love does not state they use SMO Responsibly Sourced Gold, ask them why.

In the spirit of community and collaboration, we also welcome you to enquire about our practices and suggest alternative approaches that better benefit our people and planet.

You can email us at info@monarcjewellery.com

Please refer to singlemineorigin.com for more details.