Gold mining is one of the most environmentally arduous steps in the process. It requires the use of particularly polluting equipment and employs an often underpaid workforce.

In French Guiana, this extraction causes massive soil pollution and leads to significant deforestation. Illegal practices, such as illegal mining, are commonplace, fueling a trade that is destructive to the environment and local communities.

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Once mined, gemstones are often shipped across the world to reduce costs, to workshops where they are cut, polished, and sometimes treated to enhance their appearance. Stone processing can involve harmful chemicals that, if not properly managed, can pollute the environment and harm the health of workers.

The cut and polished gemstones are then resold by dealers to supply the jewelry industry.

The manufacturing process, including the heating of metals and the use of heavy machinery, contributes to significant carbon emissions.

Often, the gemstone supply chain lacks transparency, making it difficult for consumers to know the origin and production conditions of the jewelry they purchase.