The True Impact of Jewelry on Our Planet: Why Gold-Filled is Better than Plated

Jewelry has an impact on the environment that often goes unnoticed. While sustainability is gaining momentum across industries, the environmental footprint of our jewelry choices isn’t discussed nearly enough.

The reality is that how jewelry is made affects not only the planet but also communities. Sustainable practices, especially in jewelry-making, mean fulfilling today’s needs without compromising the ability of future generations to meet theirs. This covers everything from conserving natural resources to promoting ethical labor practices.

In the long run, adopting even small, sustainable habits—like choosing better-quality jewelry—can have a massive positive effect on our planet and future generations.

What is Sustainable Jewelry?

Sustainable jewelry means pieces crafted with care, using processes that minimize waste, reduce carbon footprints, and prioritize eco-friendly packaging. At LanaBetty, we don’t take this lightly. Every step of our jewelry-making process is designed to respect the environment. We source recycled metals and work with local partners who are committed to sustainable and ethical practices.

Choosing consciously made jewelry isn’t just about aesthetics—it’s about using your purchasing power to shape a better future.

The Environmental Downside of Gold-Plated Jewelry

Gold-plated jewelry may seem like an affordable way to get the look of luxury, but the truth behind it is far less glamorous. Plated jewelry, especially gold and silver plating, is often made using cheap base metals like copper. Over time, the thin plating wears off, revealing what’s underneath. That’s why many people experience green skin after wearing these pieces—it’s a reaction to the copper base.

The environmental impact of gold-plated jewelry goes beyond its cheap materials. The plating process frequently involves harmful chemicals, including cyanide, which poses significant environmental risks. Cyanide and other toxic substances used in plating often end up polluting our waterways and soil, causing long-term damage.

What’s worse, most plated jewelry is treated as disposable. People buy it for a few wears, and then it ends up in the trash—adding to our landfills, where it contributes to harmful chemical leaching. Not only does plated jewelry not biodegrade, but it also releases pollutants that affect our air and water for years to come.

Why Vermeil Jewelry is No Better

At first glance, vermeil jewelry may seem like a better alternative—after all, it’s gold layered over sterling silver instead of a cheaper base metal. But don’t be fooled! Vermeil’s thin layer of gold wears off just as quickly as regular plated jewelry, leaving you with a piece that looks tarnished and dull after just a short period of time. Worse yet, the vermeil process still relies on harmful chemicals like cyanide for plating, making it just as environmentally destructive as other forms of plated jewelry.

Although vermeil might seem like a “luxury” option, it’s simply a temporary fix that doesn’t offer the long-lasting quality or sustainability of solid gold or gold-filled pieces. For a truly worthwhile investment, gold-filled jewelry is the clear winner in both beauty and eco-consciousness.

The Case for Conscious Consumerism

The idea of conscious consumerism is simple: make choices that benefit the planet. Every purchase you make has an impact, and being mindful of that can reduce the harm we inflict on the environment. Conscious consumerism means prioritizing high-quality, long-lasting items, like sustainably made jewelry, over cheap, fast fashion alternatives.

At LanaBetty, we believe you shouldn’t have to sacrifice beauty or style to make responsible choices. That’s why we create jewelry that’s as stunning as it is sustainable.

Why Gold-Filled Jewelry is a Better Choice

If you’re looking for high-quality, eco-conscious alternatives, gold-filled and 925 sterling silver are the way to go. Gold-filled jewelry, unlike plated, is crafted by bonding a thick layer of gold to a base metal. This means it lasts far longer and retains its luster without exposing you to the harmful metals or chemicals found in plating. It’s an investment in pieces that will stand the test of time—both in quality and environmental impact.

While gold-filled and sterling silver jewelry may come with a higher upfront cost, they pay off in the long run. When cared for properly, these pieces can last a lifetime and beyond. Plus, gold and silver never go out of style, making them timeless additions to your collection that will look just as beautiful in 10 years as they do today.

Another advantage of gold-filled and sterling silver jewelry is the lack of skin irritants. Many cheap jewelry brands use metal additives (lead, nickel, cadmium) that can cause allergic reactions—something you won’t have to worry about with the quality metals we use at LanaBetty.

Building a Better Future with Sustainable Jewelry

At LanaBetty, sustainability isn’t just a buzzword. It’s woven into every piece we create. From sourcing recycled metals to working with ethical partners, our mission is to craft jewelry with a long lifespan and a minimal environmental footprint.

When you invest in well-made, lasting pieces, you’re not just treating yourself—you’re making a positive choice for the planet. Shop consciously, and choose jewelry that’s as thoughtful as it is beautiful.

➡️ Take the first step toward conscious consumerism. Subscribe to our newsletter for updates on our sustainable practices, new collections, and tips on jewelry care!

➡️ Curious about sustainable jewelry-making? Learn more about how we craft each piece with care and responsibility. Visit our Sustainability Page to find out more.

14k Gold Filled Jewelry | 14k Solid Gold Jewelry | Sterling Silver Jewelry