FAIR TRADE SAPPHIRES

We are proud to offer Fair Trade sapphires from Columbia Gem House, Inc. Our close association with them ensures that each of our clients has the opportunity to purchase gems with a clear conscience. Fair Trade Gems are closely tracked from mine to market to ensure that every gem has been handled according to strict protocols. These protocols include environmental protection, fair labor practices, health and safety standards, and a tight chain of custody that eliminates the possibility of treated gems or synthetics being introduced into the supply chain. At the same time, Fair Trade Gems promotes cultural diversity, public education and industry accountability.

 

Protecting Worker's Rights

Columbia Gem House offers a fair deal for the workers employed at gem mines, cutting facilities and jewelry workshops, so they benefit from the gemstone supply chain. This means the following business practices are prohibited: employing underage workers, demanding exorbitant work hours, paying below minimum wages, smuggling, and other unethical behavior. 

 

Protecting the Earth and Its People

One of the most important aspects of the Fair Trade Gems protocols is protection of the environment, during the mining, cutting, and jewelry manufacturing process. By working closely with the miners, who generally live near the gem deposits, Columbia Gem House, Inc. supports mining operations that safeguard the natural environment. They also work hard to eliminate industrial diseases, such as silicosis, which is associated with cutting gemstones.

 

Support for Cultural Diversity

Gemstones are like tiny ambassadors for the people and environments that produce them. These people and their cultures are special in a world of global sameness. Culture, customs and people add romance, beauty and emotion to these gemstones.

  

Making the Supply Chain Transparent

Columbia Gem House, Inc. tracks and documents the chain of custody for the natural gemstones produced. This means all international transactions, and the transfer of goods and payments are handled in a legal and transparent manner.

 

Educating the Consumer

Customers deserve to know who, how, and where gemstones come from. The more you know, the more you appreciate the rarity of these natural treasures from the earth. You will feel comfortable knowing that the production of your gemstone actually helped people all along the supply chain.

 

Protecting Product Integrity

Columbia Gem House's Fair Trade Gems policy mandates a strict chain of custody for each gem produced. This means the quality and integrity of every gem sold is guaranteed. The policy guarantees where it was mined, how it was cut, and whether or not it was enhanced. Rest assured no synthetics ever have a chance to get mixed in with these natural Fair Trade gems.