Have you ever thought about the impact your brand has on the environment and in communities around the globe?

There’s a shift happening in the jewelry industry right now. People all the way down the chain, from consumers to designers to miners, are becoming aware of the environmental and social impact of jewelry.

The Chicago Responsible Jewelry Conference is an annual event dedicated to changing the jewelry industry for the better. It’s only in its third year, but its already making an impact.

Director of Education Jessica Gebauer sat down to talk through the major takeaways from this year’s conference with Niki Grandics, founder of Enji Studio and the co-chair of marketing and communications for Ethical Metalsmiths.

They talked about a few things YOU can do to start making a difference.