Single Mine Origin Responsibly Sourced Gold: A Step Towards Sustainable Mining

We continue to grow Otiumberg in the most responsible and conscious way we can - always with an unwavering commitment to do better. We’re a small voice in a huge industry but we always try to keep our finger on the pulse of responsible developments. Whilst we recognise the benefits of recycled gold, we have become aware that it is by no means the perfect solution to addressing conditions within the mining industry itself.

That’s why we are pleased to introduce SMO (Single Mine Origin) gold into the collection in 2023, alongside our recycled gold pieces. With every SMO gold purchase you will receive a QR code with information about the exact mine from which your gold has been mined, offering transparency and full traceability.

The extraction of gold can lead to destruction of natural habitats, water pollution, and exploitation of workers. SMO is a traceability system that ensures that the gold produced by a specific mine can be traced from the point of extraction to the final product. This system provides transparency and accountability, allowing consumers to make informed decisions about the products they buy. SMO Responsibly Sourced Gold goes a step further by ensuring that the gold is extracted using environmentally and socially responsible practices only.

What are the benefits of SMO gold?

The benefits of SMO Responsibly Sourced Gold are numerous. Firstly, it promotes sustainable mining practices that minimise negative impact on the environment. This includes reducing greenhouse gas emissions, protecting biodiversity, and conserving water resources. Secondly, it ensures that the rights of workers are respected, including their health and safety, fair wages, and working conditions. Thirdly, it provides economic benefits to local communities, including job creation and support for local businesses.

Several initiatives have been launched to promote SMO Responsibly Sourced Gold. The Responsible Jewellery Council (RJC) has developed a certification system that verifies the responsible practices of gold mines and their supply chains. The Alliance for Responsible Mining (ARM) has developed the Fairmined Standard, which ensures that gold is extracted in a way that benefits miners and their communities. Additionally, the World Gold Council has launched the Responsible Gold Mining Principles, which provide a framework for responsible gold mining practices.

SMO Responsibly Sourced Gold is a step towards sustainable mining practices. It provides transparency and accountability in the gold supply chain, promotes environmentally and socially responsible practices, and benefits local communities. As consumers, we can support this initiative by choosing products that use SMO Responsibly Sourced Gold and encouraging companies to adopt responsible mining practices.

SMO Gold at Otiumberg

We are very proud to share that we are now partnering with Single Mine Origin to create solid gold pieces in SMO gold.

Our first designs to be launched in SMO gold are our Men's Wedding Bands and The Domino Ring, handcrafted from 9 karat gold and ethically sourced smokey quartz gemstones.

The Lucia diamond engagement collection will launch on August 30th.

All of our SMO gold jewellery will use gold from the Ity Mine in Côte d’Ivoire, and every time you buy SMO pieces from us your order will include a QR code so you can read more about the mine from which your gold came.

About The Ity Mine

Ity has the longest history of any gold mine in Côte d’Ivoire, and has produced more than 1.2 million ounces of gold in over 25 years of operations. In 2021, Ity was awarded the Ivorian Mining Excellence Award for its environmental, social and governance initiatives. Ity mine is owned and operated by Endeavour Mining.

Ity is the first of Endeavour’s mines to receive SMO accreditation, giving us complete confidence that the gold has been produced by Endeavour at Ity in accordance with strict international standards, and that its segregated journey across the processing, refining and sales chain is fully traceable.

Ity mine is committed to producing gold that provides lasting value to society, whilst protecting and promoting the area where it operates.