The Chicago Responsible Jewelry Conference: Pioneering a Sustainable Future for the Jewelry Industry

Chicago is poised to host a groundbreaking event this fall, dedicated to advancing ethical and sustainable practices within the global jewelry industry. The inaugural Chicago Responsible Jewelry Conference, slated for October 13th and 14th at Columbia College in downtown Chicago, marks a significant step towards fostering greater accountability, transparency, and social well-being across the entire jewelry supply chain.

This pivotal two-day conference is meticulously designed to equip jewelers, suppliers, educators, students, and conscientious consumers with the essential knowledge, practical tools, and networking opportunities needed to advocate for and implement higher standards of social and ecological responsibility. Attendees will gain invaluable insights into making, selling, and purchasing jewelry that champions ethical sourcing, environmental stewardship, and fair labor practices worldwide.

Driving the Dialogue: A Vision for Responsible Sourcing

In an era where consumers increasingly demand transparency and ethical integrity, the jewelry industry faces a critical imperative to evolve. The Chicago Responsible Jewelry Conference emerges as a beacon for this transformation, addressing complex issues ranging from responsible mining practices and conflict minerals to fair wages, safe working conditions, and environmental protection throughout the production process. The conference’s core mission is to empower all stakeholders to become active participants in building a more equitable and sustainable future for precious metals and gemstones.

The conference curriculum will delve into crucial topics such as supply chain traceability, certification programs, innovative sustainable technologies, and strategies for consumer education. By fostering open dialogue and collaboration, the event aims to demystify the challenges of responsible sourcing and present actionable solutions that can be implemented at every level of the industry, from the smallest independent jeweler to large-scale manufacturers and retailers.

Expert Facilitation by Andrea Hill

Guiding the insightful discussions and ensuring a dynamic exchange of ideas will be Andrea Hill, the esteemed owner of Hill Management Group. Known for her profound understanding of the jewelry sector and her adept moderation skills, Hill will serve as the conference emcee, facilitating engaging conversations and ensuring that the diverse perspectives of speakers and attendees converge on meaningful outcomes. Her leadership promises to make the conference both informative and exceptionally productive.

A Constellation of Leading Voices: Meet the Speakers

The Chicago Responsible Jewelry Conference boasts an impressive roster of speakers, featuring some of the most influential pioneers, thought leaders, and experts in ethical sourcing and sustainable jewelry. These individuals bring a wealth of experience and groundbreaking perspectives, offering attendees unparalleled access to cutting-edge information and real-world solutions. The speaker lineup includes:

Toby Pomeroy: A pivotal figure in bringing ethical gold to the forefront of industry discourse through his collaborative efforts with Hoover & Strong. Pomeroy’s work has been instrumental in shaping responsible material sourcing standards.
Stewart Grice: As Hoover & Strong’s vice president of mill and refining and a top material science expert, Grice offers deep technical insights into responsible processing and material integrity.
Christina Miller: Co-founder of Ethical Metalsmiths, Miller has been a tireless advocate for environmental and social responsibility, driving education and awareness within the metalsmithing community.
Monica Stephenson: Owner of Anza Gems and the insightful writer and publisher of the prominent jewelry industry blog iDazzle, Stephenson brings a unique blend of sourcing expertise and industry commentary.
Eric Braunwart: The visionary owner of Columbia Gem House, Braunwart is a widely recognized pioneer in establishing ethical sourcing pathways for colored gemstones, demonstrating a long-standing commitment to transparency.
Elizabeth Orlando: Representing the U.S. Department of State, Orlando will shed light on governmental perspectives and initiatives related to responsible supply chains and international regulations impacting the jewelry trade.
Patricia Syvrud: From Jòia Consulting, Syvrud offers strategic insights into navigating the complexities of responsible business practices within the jewelry sector.
Cristina M. Villegas: As a senior program officer at Pact World’s Mines to Market program, Villegas works directly on empowering artisanal mining communities and ensuring sustainable development from the ground up.
Orin Mazzoni: Producer of the compelling mine-to-market documentary “Sharing the Rough,” Mazzoni provides a powerful visual narrative that underscores the human and environmental realities of gemstone sourcing.

Each speaker represents a crucial facet of the responsible jewelry movement, collectively offering a comprehensive view of the challenges and opportunities for positive change.

Beyond the Sessions: An Immersive Documentary Experience

Adding another layer of depth and engagement, the conference will feature a special screening of Orin Mazzoni’s acclaimed documentary, “Sharing the Rough.” This powerful film takes viewers on an unforgettable journey, exploring the intricate process of gemstone discovery, cutting, and market entry, while highlighting the lives and communities impacted along the way. It offers a raw and honest look at the realities of the mine-to-market pipeline, emphasizing the critical importance of ethical practices.

The documentary screening is open to all conference attendees and, significantly, to members of the general public. This inclusive approach aims to broaden awareness beyond industry insiders, inviting everyone to understand the human connection and environmental footprint behind their cherished jewelry pieces. It serves as a compelling visual complement to the conference’s educational sessions, bringing the complex narratives of responsible sourcing to vivid life.

The Visionary Behind the Conference: Susan Wheeler and Ethical Metalsmiths

The impetus for the Chicago Responsible Jewelry Conference originated from the passionate vision of Susan Wheeler, founder of Susan Wheeler Design. A dedicated member of Ethical Metalsmiths and an active participant in several committees for the Jewelry Industry Summit – another leading responsible sourcing conference now in its second year – Wheeler recognized the pressing need for a focused platform in Chicago to address these critical issues. Her commitment to integrating ethical considerations into every aspect of jewelry design and production has been the driving force behind this pioneering event.

The conference is being held in robust collaboration with Ethical Metalsmiths, a non-profit organization renowned for its unwavering commitment to advancing responsible practices in the jewelry and metals industry. Ethical Metalsmiths plays a crucial role not only as a strategic partner but also by hosting an online jewelry auction. This auction, scheduled for Monday, serves to raise additional vital funds, ensuring the longevity and continued impact of the conference and its educational initiatives. Their involvement underscores the industry’s collective dedication to fostering a more ethical and sustainable future.

Strengthening the Movement: Industry Partnerships and Sponsorships

The success and reach of an event of this magnitude are significantly bolstered by strong industry partnerships. The Chicago Responsible Jewelry Conference is proud to be sponsored by MJSA (Manufacturing Jewelers & Suppliers of America), a leading trade association dedicated to the professional growth of businesses in the jewelry manufacturing and design community. MJSA’s support signifies the mainstream industry’s growing recognition of responsible sourcing as a non-negotiable aspect of modern business.

With more sponsorships anticipated, the conference is rapidly gaining momentum as a vital gathering for anyone invested in the future of ethical jewelry. These partnerships not only provide essential financial backing but also amplify the conference’s message, helping to disseminate best practices and inspire broader adoption of responsible standards across the entire supply chain.

Secure Your Place: Registration and Ticket Information

Participation in the Chicago Responsible Jewelry Conference offers an unparalleled opportunity to engage with industry leaders, learn from experts, and contribute to a vital movement. Tickets are priced at $200 until September 15th, providing an attractive early-bird rate for those who register promptly. Please note that this price does not include tickets to the film screening, which may be purchased separately or as part of a package.

Following the September 15th deadline, the price for conference admission will increase to $300. Recognizing the importance of nurturing future generations of ethical jewelers, students are eligible for a discounted ticket price of $100 upon presentation of a valid student ID. Attendees are encouraged to secure their registration early to take advantage of the reduced rate and ensure their spot at this highly anticipated event.

Charting a Course for a Responsible Tomorrow

The Chicago Responsible Jewelry Conference represents more than just a series of presentations; it is a catalyst for change, a convergence of minds committed to redefining what it means to create and consume beautiful jewelry responsibly. By fostering education, encouraging collaboration, and providing actionable strategies, the conference aims to ignite a movement that will echo throughout the global jewelry industry for years to come.

Join us in Chicago this October to be part of this transformative dialogue. Whether you are a seasoned industry professional, an aspiring jeweler, an academic, or a consumer passionate about making a difference, your participation will contribute to building a future where every piece of jewelry tells a story of integrity, sustainability, and positive impact.