A client recently asked us this question — and here is our answer:
We use recycled gold and recycled diamonds in our creations. Here is some information about the difference in energy use and carbon emissions between mined and recycled diamonds.
1. Mined Diamonds
Extracting a single carat of diamond from a mine has a significant environmental impact, especially in terms of carbon emissions. According to recent studies:
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Carbon emissions per carat: On average, mining one carat of diamond generates 160 to 200 kilograms of CO₂. This figure can vary depending on factors like mining technology, location, and the type of energy used (coal, diesel, renewable electricity, etc.).
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Energy consumption: Diamond mines require large amounts of energy, which contributes to their carbon footprint. In remote areas that rely on fossil fuels, the environmental cost is even higher.
Why is the impact so high?
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Mining requires moving and processing massive volumes of rock.
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Heavy equipment, pumps, and ventilation systems often run on fossil fuels.
2. Recycled Diamonds
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Energy consumption: Collecting, sorting, cleaning, and re-cutting a recycled diamond uses only 1 to 5 kWh per carat — roughly 1% of the energy required for mining.
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Carbon emissions: Recycling emits only 5 to 10 kg of CO₂ per carat, which is about 95% less than mining.
Why is the footprint so low?
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No raw material is extracted from the earth.
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The core steps (cleaning, reconditioning) are far less energy-intensive.
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Transport emissions exist but remain minimal, as jewelry is small and lightweight.
In Summary: Why Choose Recycled Diamonds?
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Ecological: A drastic reduction in both carbon emissions and energy use.
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Ethical: Less dependence on mining, which often involves deforestation, pollution, and poor labor conditions.
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Durable: Recycled diamonds retain all the beauty, brilliance, and value of newly mined stones — with none of the environmental cost.