What You Need to Know About Recycled Gold Rings and Gold in General
Jewelry, decorations, technology and even heating appliances showcase the beauty and power of gold. That's why it's one of the most popular metals on the planet. Thinking back to the Ancient Egyptians, gold was used to showcase status, prestige, and wealth. Pharaohs were even dressed in gold and buried in gold coffins weighing tons. With so many usages for this precious metal over the years, gold has become rarer to find, and with its popularity, a solution needed to be found.
The idea of recycled gold evolved from there. Just like we recycle other items, such as plastics and aluminum, recycled gold has become a cost-effective way to continue to leverage gold in jewelry and other products.
Let's learn more about gold recycling and why John Atencio is committed to using recycled gold, not only to craft timeless designs but also to promote sustainability.
Where Does Recycled Gold Come From?
Between 2005 and 2010, recycled gold made up around 35 percent of the available gold in the world. That number has gone up significantly since then as more gold has been recycled and consumers are more aware of what they are buying from jewelers and retailers across the globe.
Recycled gold comes from gold mined from sources mixed with other materials in nature or by being broken down after it has been created into an item. Catalytic converters, circuit boards, and many computing components make up the bulk of recycled gold in circulation around the world.
Recycling gold is a cost-effective measure to make gold more affordable in a variety of products, especially jewelry.
Why Do We Recycle Gold Rings and Other Gold?
Many countries have seen soil erosion, deforestation, and other issues impacting the ecosystems where gold miners have been digging for decades. Chemicals like mercury and cyanide, are also involved in the mining process layering more negative impacts on these countries.
This has affected wildlife, food production, and economies in small and developing countries for over a century. By turning to recycled gold, this reduces the strain on these countries by reducing the environmental impact of gold mining.
How is Gold Jewelry Recycled and Turned into Jewelry?
When it comes to jewelry, the process starts by looking for impurities in the gold itself. Impurities are melted off during the smelting process. If the gold has been mixed with other metals, such as nickel, these alloys can be separated to determine the true karat value of the gold. From there, the recycled gold is then molded into the shape and size desired, such as ring, chain, or another piece of jewelry.
Since gold can be recycled with little to no degradation in quality, it makes sense to invest in sustainable solutions that not only help the environment but continue to pass on that gold jewelry for generations to come.
John Atencio is proud to use recycled gold and ethically-sourced gemstones and diamonds in all his classic creations. Let the John Atencio team help you find the perfect gold ring or piece to accompany you throughout life's special occasions.
