Our planet is a water world, with over 70% covered by oceans. These vast bodies of water connect us all, regardless of whether we live near the coast or are landlocked. The health of the oceans directly affects our lives on land, impacting everything from climate regulation to the economy. What we do—or fail to do—when it comes to preserving, restoring, and protecting our oceans will shape our future. Beyond their obvious appeal for tourism and recreation, oceans offer invaluable assets like food, carbon storage, and vital support for coastal economies and livelihoods.
In viewing nature, especially our oceans, as an asset class, we can shift our perspective from seeing the natural world as a resource to exploit, to recognizing it as a legacy we are borrowing from our children. This viewpoint urges us to catalyze action toward a healthier planet and a more equal society.
What Does This Have to Do With Jewelry? Pearls!
The connection between jewelry, specifically pearls, and ocean health is direct and profound. Pearls are not just beautiful organic gems; they are living symbols of a thriving marine ecosystem.
The saltwater mollusks that create pearls can only do so in pristine, nutrient-rich waters, making them excellent indicators of environmental health.
In fact, the presence of pearl farms often enhances marine biodiversity. Fish and other organisms thrive around the floating racks of pearl farms, feeding on what grows on the oysters. This interdependent relationship strengthens the local marine environment. Responsible pearl farming takes this further by using sustainable methods that benefit both the oysters and the surrounding ecosystem.
For example, to keep mollusks healthy and parasite-free, responsible pearl farmers transport them to shallow lagoons where fish naturally clean them. This method, although more time-consuming, is far gentler than industrial alternatives that use pressure hoses to achieve the same result. The quality of the pearl is a direct reflection of the health of its environment, as pearls formed in cleaner, less-stressed waters are often of higher quality.
Conversely, low-quality pearls may be a red flag, indicating both a compromised ecosystem and poor working conditions for laborers who are not fairly compensated. By supporting responsible pearl farming, we not only help sustain healthy oceans but also promote fair labor practices.
Cultured Pearls as a Renewable Resource
Sustainability is a crucial topic in the jewelry industry, but it can be complex, especially when terms like “eco-friendly” are used loosely or co-opted by greenwashing. However, pearls stand out as a renewable natural resource. Cultured pearls, when responsibly sourced, support both environmental sustainability and the welfare of those involved in their production.
When purchasing pearls, it's essential to inquire about the origins of the materials. Who made them, and how were they sourced? Ethical jewelers will be transparent, providing as much information as possible and being honest when certain details are unknown.
At Marina Korneev Fine Pearls, our mission is to help you invest in jewelry that not only aligns with your personal values but also supports the well-being of the planet and its people. By choosing responsibly sourced pearls, you can feel confident that your purchase is not only a symbol of beauty but also a reflection of your commitment to nature, sustainability, and fairness.
The Larger Impact: Beyond Pearls
Even mollusks that don't produce pearls contribute to marine health. Initiatives like The Billion Oyster Project, for example, are restoring habitats for hundreds of species while protecting cities like New York from flooding and shoreline erosion. These projects also help mitigate damage from large storms and waves.
By understanding the interconnectedness between jewelry and the health of our oceans, we can make more informed, ethical choices. Pearls are more than just jewelry; they are reminders of the delicate balance in nature and our role in preserving it.
Viewing nature as an asset class means recognizing that the future of our planet is in our hands.
The choices we make today—whether in our daily lives or in the jewelry we purchase—can help create a more sustainable and equitable world for future generations.
Here’s to catalyzing progress toward a healthier planet and a more equal society, one pearl at a time.