People, Places, & Colored Gemstones
Hayley Henning –
Colored Gemstone Business Strategist –
Colored gemstones have traditionally been shrouded in mystery. Their fascinating origins, along with a dazzling array of rich vibrant colors and complicated chemistry, have captivated our interest for as long as human beings have adorned themselves with their beauty.
It’s undeniable that most colored gems hail from far-off and far-flung, little-known locations, which is also perhaps why we call them ‘exotic’. Until recently, and still, supply chains have remained opaque, regarding the environmental and human impact on mining, processing, and the distribution processes. Having had the privilege to witness some of these remote mining operations and processing facilities firsthand, I firmly believe that colored gemstones serve as a link between people and places.
Sustainability and Making Meaningful Impact
In line with broader societal trends, there’s a growing demand from consumers for transparency regarding the origin and supply-chain of gemstones, diamonds and metals, and it’s incumbent upon us, as an industry, to make this information accessible beyond our trade circles, empowering consumers to make informed purchasing decisions. Ultimately, the care for our planet and its inhabitants should be at the forefront of our business endeavors, regardless of their scale.
The Jewellery World Awards
SUSTAINABILITY AWARDS 2024 BY JWA (JEWELLERY WORLD AWARDS) INSPIRES AND CELEBRATES
Informa Markets Jewellery Sustainability Awards 2024 by JWA (Jewellery World Awards) is a commendable global initiative recognizing and honoring outstanding sustainability efforts undertaken in the past three years by businesses of all sizes in the fine jewelry, gemstone and related industries. It gives organizations the opportunity to share and showcase the ESG (Environmental, Social and Governance) activities that drive their businesses. Going beyond day-to-day operations, these companies are being celebrated for their Environmental Stewardship, Social Empowerment, Manufacturing Innovation, Community Engagement or Sustainability Leadership. Submitting themselves in one or more of these categories will not only highlight a company’s activities in that field, but hopefully encourage and inspire others to make changes in their operations, if they haven’t already.
The Tanzanite Foundation and more
It was in 2004 that the Tanzanite Foundation formed as one of the first colored gemstone mining operation initiatives that supported the communities outside the mining operations in Tanzania. A percentage of proceeds from the sale of rough tanzanite went towards building schools and orphanages, pumping fresh water into the local villages, and establishing a community center for locals to gather. During my years as Executive Director, it was the responsibility of the Foundation to not only educate the consumer on the rarity and beauty of the gem, driving sales and growing businesses, but to support the local villagers making a difference in their everyday lives.
In 2012, on the back of the Tanzanite Foundation, I initiated a jewelry making project with 12 Masai ladies outside the Tanzanite mining area. Handmade jewels with tumbled tanzanite were sold locally, and on the Smithsonian Institute website – proceeds sent children to school. Thanks to CIBJO (The World Jewellery Confederation), this small but significant project was recognized by the United Nations. The project was an example of how each and every one of us can make a difference – it’s not just for the big guys!
While being the CCO at Greenland Ruby (a ruby and pink mining operation in Greenland), along with many innovative and creative marketing campaigns, I founded the Pink Polarbear Foundation, an independent organization supported by buyers of the gems being mined by Greenland Ruby. Unlike the name suggests, the Pink Polarbear Foundation was established to support people in Greenland, not polar bears! (The polar bear is the symbol of Greenland, and pink is the color of the gems being mined.) Proceeds go towards research into the effects of climate change in the region, as well as education and support of local communities around the mining area.
Inspiration
I am inspired by individuals and companies alike, who go above and beyond their core ESG activities to not only support their own employees, but initiatives that will make a difference in our very complex world. Whether feeding thousands of school children every day, supporting technology in underserved areas, funding, building and running community centers and facilities, financing medical initiatives, protecting and restoring ecosystems, or championing diversity, equity and inclusion, these efforts deserve recognition and celebration!
WJA Judges
I am honored to be one of five judges on the JWA panel joining the esteemed John Mulligan, Director of Market Relations & Climate Change Lead, World Gold Council (WGC), Nirupa Bhatt Business Leadership Coach & Strategic Adviser, Andrew Lau Director of ESG Advisory, Colliers Asia, Jan Porter Head of Sustainability, Meiyume. We will spend May and June discussing and adjudicating on submissions which are due by April 30th.
Nominations accepted through April 30th
If you or your company have undertaken noteworthy initiatives, we invite you to share your story. Submissions require you answer three questions, submit any relevant videos and slides, and tell us about your campaign/initiative. Judging will take place in June, with announcements in July. We will celebrate the winners on September 18th in Hong Kong!
Together let’s seize this opportunity to shine a spotlight on sustainability and making a meaningful impact on our world!
Online Nomination Forms: Eligible companies are allowed to enter a maximum of two (2) award categories.
Media Announcements: Tap here for more information about the Jewellery World Awards (JWA)
FAQ’s:
Hayley Henning is Colored Gemstone Business Strategist with over 30 years in the Colored Gemstone, Diamond and Jewelry Industries.
