Aussie jewellery brand’s sustainability mission

Brisbane-based brand Medley’s new season collection now comes with a certified sustainable and climate neutral rating in accordance with the SCS-007 Jewellery Sustainability Standard Series.

SCS is an acronym for Scientific Certification Systems, a global independent body that helps audit and uphold the integrity of the jewellery and precious stones industry.

“It was an extensive 12-month process to become an accredited SCS-007 retailer of laboratory-grown diamonds, something that as a brand was a very important step for us,” explains head of Medley, Amber Hodgman.

“Sustainability and responsible sourcing are key pillars for Medley and we wanted to give our customers a guarantee that the laboratory-grown diamonds they can purchase from us are high quality and certified sustainable.”

Sales of lab-grown diamonds have enjoyed rapid growth, with global sales reaching close to $12 billion in 2022, according to research. This represents a 38 per cent year-on-year increase, up from $1 billion in 2016.

If a lab-grown diamond is SCS-007 certified like Medley’s entire new season range, it comes with its very own downloadable certificate, that helps ensure both buyer transparency and that sustainable green tick. You can also see where your laboratory-grown diamond was grown and its overall sustainability rating.

“Medley’s ethos is to offer high-quality, accessible and modern styles, which is why we endeavour to create pieces that are also manufactured in a contemporary way.”

Since becoming SCS accredited, Medley has launched two new lines including its winter 24 collection, Lineaire.

“Our newest collection includes laboratory-grown diamond kite-set pieces that were designed with the art deco era in mind,” adds senior buyer, Donna Sturla.

“Fancy cuts are coming through as one the strongest trends in diamonds, think Marquise, Baguette and Pear. We wanted to do a Medley take and offer micro versions of these fancy cuts, celebrating the many geometric shapes of art deco. These styles have a modern twist and are perfect for everyday wear.”