Helen Ear Cuff / Silver

Eco info

Excellent working conditions

This jewelry is made by hands in Germany, and also developed inhouse in Räthel & Wolf’s studio in Berlin, being shaped directly on the body. The creators are at the heart of every stage of production, and they are all working closely as a team, committed to social sustainability and inclusivity. All staff are paid above the living wage, schedules are created that do not allow for excessive working hours, and they follow the International Labour Organization’s (ILO) Declaration on Fundamental Principles and Rights at Work. They also require that sub suppliers and collaborators do the same. The contact with the smaller workshops in Germany are close and personal, they can monitor every step of the production process with regular on-site visits, ensuring that working conditions are aligned with ethics and the law.

Supporting traditional Skills

The handcrafting involved in making these pieces, are old and important to preserve. Doing things in a slow way, makes the value of each piece higher. It is touched and cared for, and every piece is, though made with excellent craftsmanship, slightly different from the other. This way of working supports local industries in Germany, and protects traditional craftsmanship.

Reducing waste with Small Batch production

Every piece in this collection is made in small controlled batches, which means that there’s  no overproduction and that each piece is made slowly with focus on craft and quality. They are non-seasonal and designed to last a lifetime.

Low Toxic

Chemicals used in the production is minimal, and all use is controlled in regards to storing and disposal in a proper manner, following European laws and guidelines.

Inclusive design approach

No piercings are needed to wear this jewelry. It is made to be non-invasive, gender neutra,l and can be worn by any-body.

Low Carbon Footprint

Räthel & Wolf do all of sampling in house, and all collections are produced in Germany to ensure less movement between suppliers, and less transportation. They constantly work with partners to find ways to reduce carbon footprint.

Use of recycled raw materials

Räthel & wolf strive to leave behind as little waste as possible, and have a starting point in as much recycled raw material as they can. New collections are also designed to incorporate remaining materials from previous productions. They use 100% recycled silver, and  carefully monitor supply chains. The larger goal is to take part in setting a new ethical standard within the wider industry, as the mining sector can be complex. They’ve supported the Alliance for Responsible Mining (ARM), the leading global expert on artisanal and small-scale mining, and want to take part in moving their industry into a socially and environmentally responsible one, improving the quality of life of artisanal miners, their families and communities. All  gemstones used in their designs are superior off-cuts from the gemstone industry, hand selected, up-cycled and carved by local artisans.

Energy saving

The Räthel & Wolf studio and workshop is run with green energy. The studio is run on 100% renewable energy using the “Profi Natur24 Strom” Tarif from Vattenfall Europe.

Use of recycled and Upcycled packaging material

Räthel & Wolf keep packaging and printed materials to a minimum, and all of it is which are recycled and recyclable.