Monday, September 27, 2010

Ethical Ivory :: yay or nay?

Ivory is back on the agenda, only this time it’s ethical.


Russian businessmen are taking advantage of a continuing demand for ivory and mining woolly mammoth remains for their tusks. This ‘ethical’ ivory, which is mined from underneath the Siberian tundra, is expected to demand a premium price. Currently, Russia is exporting 60 tonnes of mammoth ivory to China annually.


A Woolly Mammoth. Image from The Age


Monique Pean is one designer using ethical ivory to produce stunning jewellery worn by admirers that include Michelle Obama. Her breathless pieces include other ethically sourced materials, including 100% recycled gold and conflict-free diamonds. Check out her website for more information on her ethical sourcing policies.


Monique Pean ivory ring


To be honest, I’m not sure what I think about ethical ivory or whether I’d ever purchase a piece, but I admire designers who make efforts to supply a market demand with ethical options. I do, however, worry that continuing to promote ivory as a luxury and coveted item will encourage the illegal elephant poaching trade, as fashionistas who can’t afford the ethical option may opt for a cheaper substitution.


Would you ever purchase an ethical ivory piece of jewellery?