Fair Trade
An Issue of Concern for the Lampworkers and Jewlery Designers

Longstanding abuses in the garment and food industries led to establishment of several fine "watch-dog" organizations, and the establishment of the "Fair Trade" movement.

Here is a definition from the FINE group of organisations (Fairtrade Labelling Organizations International, International Fair Trade Association, Network of European Worldshops and European Fair Trade Association):

"Fair Trade is a trading partnership based on dialogue, transparency and respect, that seeks greater equity in international trade. It contributes to sustainable development by offering better trading conditions to, and securing the rights of, marginalised producers and workers - especially in the South. Fair Trade organisations (backed by consumers) are engaged actively in supporting producers, awareness raising and in campaigning for changes in the rules and practice of conventional international trade."


This Fair Trade issue touches the jewelry designing industry very directly.

It is no secret that cheap imports from China and other third world countries come at the cost of human suffering. But several recent articles, including an article in the L.A. Times and a November Article in Frontine (India's National Magazine) have highlighted the tragic toll on human life caused by unsafe conditions in the lapidary industry.

The grinding process used for semiprecious beads produces clouds of quartz dust. When inhaled by workers, this dust causes silicosis, an incurable disease of the lungs.

I support the cause of fair trade and use components made by fair trade suppliers.