An exclusive report by "Die Zeit" reveals how illegally mined gold travels from rainforests to European jewelry stores — and why legislations alone may not guarantee ethical sourcing.
When we buy a gold ring, we rarely think about the rainforest. But that’s exactly where its story begins. In its report “On the Trail of Gold” (Nov 21, 2024), "Die Zeit" takes us deep into the jungles of French Guiana, where people risk their lives mining gold under brutal, toxic conditions.
The French Foreign Legion attempts to shut down illegal mining camps, but the profits are too high — and the flow of gold continues. The gold is smuggled through countries like Suriname and the United Arab Emirates, eventually reaching Swiss refineries. There, it’s mixed with legally sourced gold, making its origin impossible to trace.
This is the heart of the problem: once refined, even certified dealers can unknowingly sell gold mined under dangerous, exploitative conditions. The report criticizes weak international regulations and calls for real supply chain transparency.
What does this mean for us as goldsmiths and consumers? We need to ask questions, challenge suppliers, choose transparent options like fair mined gold — and push for political solutions that ensure traceability and accountability in all gold trade.
Source:
Based on the article “Auf der Spur des Goldes” by Fabian Federl, Die Zeit (Nov 21, 2024). Available online: zeit.de
Link to German article: