The Ethics of Crystals

 

Three crystal bracelets inside a brown agate bowl on a bedside table

In recent years, crystals have become increasingly popular in the mainstream as people have woken up to their amazing properties and awesome beauty. This has created increased demand on mines and miners to deliver higher volumes of crystals and at increasingly more competitive prices.

We are delighted are that more people want to use and experience crystals, and we are so happy to be a part of that journey with you. However, there can be an ugly side to it. 

What this has meant for the crystal industry is, in some cases, exploitation, forced labour and a disregard for human rights.

So, at 23 Urban we are seeking to create some sort of balance in the order of things. These are the steps we are taking:

  • Where we can, we are sourcing our crystals ethically, either direct from the mines or from reputable wholesalers, with the aim of becoming 100% ethically sourced by 2022. 
  • We are supporting local, UAE businesses in our supply chain:
    • Our 23 Urban jute bags are made from recycled, biodegradable materials with a small carbon footprint and are produced here in Dubai. 
    • Our business cards and other paper materials are produced by  a small local printing business here in Dubai. 
    • Our stickers are also produced here in Dubai.
    • Where possible, all our packaging material is recyclable and we aim to reduce as much waste going to landfill as possible. 

If you have any questions about our sourcing or want to chat about crystal ethics, drop us a line on info@twentythreeurban.com