Sustainability

At Athenassa, we believe beautiful things should be made beautifully, with care, conscience, and intention. We know that truly sustainable jewellery doesn’t exist (yet), but we’re committed to making better choices every step of the way. From sourcing materials to reducing waste, we’re building a brand that honours both craft and the planet.

We’re early in our journey, but our values are strong. We’re not here to greenwash. We’re here to be honest, improve constantly, and create pieces you’ll love for years, not just a season.

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Guided by big standards, grounded in small business values

As a small, independent brand, we’re not yet members of global organisations like the UN Global Compact or the Responsible Jewellery Council, but we look to them as the gold standard. Their values around human rights, gender equality, and environmental responsibility guide the way we build our business.

We only work with partners who share those values, factories with safe conditions, fair pay, and a deep respect for their teams and their craft. We’re proud to support ethical production, even as we continue learning and improving.

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A note from our Founder, Hollie

"When I started Athenassa, I didn’t just want to make beautiful jewellery, I wanted to build something that felt good at every level. That meant asking tough questions about where our materials came from, who made our pieces, and how we could reduce waste.

We’re not perfect. But we are committed, to transparency, responsibility, and progress. Every piece we create is a small step towards a more considered kind of luxury, and I’m so grateful to have you on this journey with us.”

– Hollie, Founder of Athenassa

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Why it all matters

Sustainability isn’t a trend. It’s a responsibility. And it’s something we care deeply about, not just because it’s the right thing to do, but because we know our customers care, too.

We’ll keep being honest about where we are, and where we’re headed. And we promise to keep making jewellery that doesn’t just look good, but feels good, too.

Materials that matter

Materials that matter

Our jewellery is designed to last, and that starts with better materials. Every Athenassa piece is made from recycled or responsibly sourced metal, and crafted by hand in small batches.

Recycled Sterling Silver: Our core material, chosen for its beauty, durability, and lower environmental impact.

18ct Gold Vermeil: We use thick layers of real 18ct gold over sterling silver, not “gold tone” or flash plating, so your pieces stay radiant for years.

Freshwater Pearls & Gemstones: We only work with trusted suppliers and are working towards full traceability across our stones.

No single-use plastic: Ever.

We’re committed to using more certified recycled materials as we grow, and we’re actively reviewing our supply chain to keep improving.

Responsible production

Responsible production

We only work with a small number of carefully chosen makers, highly skilled, family-run workshops who share our values and care about their people. Many have been crafting jewellery for decades, and their experience shows in every detail.

Our workshops operate under strict ethical standards, including:

- Safe working environments
- Fair, legal pay
- No child or forced labour
- Transparency around sourcing and subcontracting

We visit our partners regularly (and virtually!) to maintain close relationships and ensure standards are being upheld.

Packaging and delivery

Packaging and delivery

We’ve designed our packaging to be as beautiful as it is responsible.

- 100% recyclable boxes and tissue
- Reusable soft pouches to protect your jewellery
- No single-use plastic, ever

We’re also working with carbon conscious delivery partners and planning to measure and offset our shipping footprint as we grow.

Looking forward

Looking forward

We’re just getting started. Some of our current goals include:

- Increasing our use of certified recycled gold and silver
- Improving traceability across all gemstones and pearls
- Offsetting more of our carbon emissions across shipping and production
- Becoming certified by leading ethical and environmental organisations