Crafting our Future
For over 150 years, sustainability has been at the core of our ethos at Hamilton & Inches. The pieces our expert jewellers create are the very antithesis of fast fashion; each lovingly crafted, made to last and to be treasured. Our repair offering keeps in with an eco-responsible attitude of jewellery as pieces can be reimagined into beautiful new creations instead of being forgotten or disposed of. Our team are a shining example of local talent, passing their incredible skillset onto the next generation so these unique crafts are never lost.
We strive to utilise sustainable practises in every element of our business. Explore our sustainable practices below.
As Royal Warrant holders, we take our commitment to sustainable practices and the environment very seriously. We are regularly assessed on our ethical, human rights, social and environmental considerations in our day-to-day operations, business planning activities, sourcing and decision making practises.
Our supply chain is reviewed regularly and we work with suppliers who have the same values and ethos as Hamilton & Inches. As a Royal Warrant holder, we have strict standards we impose upon ourselves and as a result, are duty bound to form legal contracts based on the values, ethos and commitment to sustainability from each of our trusted suppliers.
SUSTAINIBILITY
Our Materials
We apply the same sustainable approach to the sourcing of our raw materials. We follow a strict code of practice that allows us to trace our precious metals and gemstones from the diamond or gold mines right through to our suppliers and retail operations.
We apply the same sustainable approach to the sourcing of our raw materials. We follow a strict code of practice that allows us to trace our precious metals and gemstones from the diamond or gold mines right through to our suppliers and retail operations.
trees for life
Rewilding the Scottish Highlands
As part of our support for a sustainable Scotland, 10p from every bag we use is donated directly to Trees For Life; a business whose sole vision is to revitalise wild forest in the Highlands of Scotland, providing space for wildlife to flourish and communities to thrive.
As part of our support for a sustainable Scotland, 10p from every bag we use is donated directly to Trees For Life; a business whose sole vision is to revitalise wild forest in the Highlands of Scotland, providing space for wildlife to flourish and communities to thrive.
Suppliers must only source precious gemstones from conflict-free zones; subject to thorough checks and third-party verification controls. The Kimberley Process Certification Scheme and relevant national legislation, must be applied to every diamond purchased by, or on behalf of, Hamilton & Inches.
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Scotgold Resources Ltd, owners of the Cononish Mine - the source of our 22ct Scottish Gold collection - have pledged to preserve the natural surroundings, vegetation and wildlife of the mine: despite its remote location. Scotgold are acutely aware of the privilege and responsibility that comes with working in such a wild and beautiful landscape. Clean and modern methods are used for the recovery of the gold, eschewing mercury and cyanide in favour of a gravity and flotation method that eliminates the danger of contaminating the purity of the Highland waters.
FIND OUT MOREOur Showroom
Based in the heart of Edinburgh, Hamilton & Inches’ 87 George St premises are listed and over the years, careful work has gone into the restoration and upkeep of such a magnificent building. Where possible, we utilise Scottish materials and suppliers and this will be even more evident in our future refurbishment project.
At a grassroots level, mileage and emissions are reduced by the fact that our showroom and workshop have always occupied the same premises, first on Princes Street and then at our current location on George Street. Workers are encouraged, where possible, to utilise public transport and careful planning is taken in all forms of company travel.
We utilise effective waste management systems to safeguard the protection of employees and the environment. The attitude and efforts of our craftspeople to utilise every piece of precious material - from metal to gold - helps ensure waste is minimal.
Based in the heart of Edinburgh, Hamilton & Inches’ 87 George St premises are listed and over the years, careful work has gone into the restoration and upkeep of such a magnificent building. Where possible, we utilise Scottish materials and suppliers and this will be even more evident in our future refurbishment project
Our approach to sustainability also encompasses staff well being and intangibles.
We actively support our craftspeople and apprentices in the development and retention of artisanal skills and traditional methods, and work with QEST (The Queen Elizabeth Scholarship Trust), which fosters education and excellence in craft in the UK, through our Academy.
All teams have access to the very finest of training options from our valued suppliers and partners. Continuous professional development is actively encouraged within our business; we never stop learning.
All staff members have access to WeCare, an approved physical and mental health platform, offering our team access to private health appointments and counselling where needed.
Our Memberships
We are members of the RJC (Responsible Jewellery Council) and the NAJ (National Association of Jewellers) and as such, are subject to rigorous standards and sustainable practises.
The RJC has developed a benchmark standard for the jewellery supply chain with credible mechanisms for verifying responsible business practises through independent third-party auditing.
Hamilton & Inches are a pioneer for the development of sustainable practises and are at the forefront for education on how we can improve the circular economoy of our industry. Most recently, we were the main sponsors of Goldflair, an event organised by jeweller Ian Nicholson to showcase and raise awareness of ethical jewellery and practices. Held at The Assembly Rooms in Edinburgh, the event marked the culmination of Nicholson’s year-long investigation into ethical mining and is set to be held on a biennial basis.
About H&I
