It’s known the world over that sapphires are precious gems set to mesmerise their beholder with that ethereal blue glow.

Coveted for their deep hues and durability, these stones inspire questions like, ‘Where do sapphires come from?’ and ‘How are they drawn from the Earth?’

In reality, bringing these treasures to the surface doesn’t always offer a happy tale, as the industry holds a long history of unethical practices. With our commitment to more responsible practices, our specialists at Sapphire Dreams Australia have compiled some points along with the ethical considerations we ensure take place with the items within our collection.

Closer to home, Australian sapphires not only offer more intense and distinct hues, but are incredibly durable, able to hold far larger sizes. In fact, the biggest sapphire found in Australia was the "Black Star of Queensland," a black sapphire weighing in at a staggering 733 carats. This mammoth gem exemplifies Australia's rich sapphire deposits, showing why this country deserves attention when discussing sapphire mining.

Another way Australia leads the international sapphire mining industry is our approach to ethical practices benefiting both workers, companies and investors.

Unfortunately, the world of sapphire mining is not always as transparent and ethical as we'd wish. Especially in developing countries, sapphire mining often involves hazardous working conditions, low wages, child labour, and devastating ecological consequences, all in the pursuit of maximising profits.

In countries like Madagascar and Myanmar, where locals are desperate for employment opportunities and regulations are far less stringent, mining practices often overlook worker rights, safety protocols, and environmental conservation. Unchecked mining operations deplete natural resources, leaving behind ravaged landscapes and polluted water bodies. Such malpractices shatter local communities, exploit vulnerable populations, and destroy habitats, leaving a trail of irreversible damage.

In stark contrast to the disheartening realities above, Australian sapphire mining shines as an example of ethical mining practices. Governed by strict mining laws, reinforced by continuous oversight, Australian sapphire mining prioritises the safety and fair treatment of its workers. There are no child workers, reasonable wages are offered to employees, and they also have the same benefits and rights as any other career in the country.

Simultaneously, it upholds sustainable practices that mitigate ecological damage and consider impacts on indigenous cultures.

Australia has a rich history of sapphire mining dating back to the late 19th century, with major fields located in New South Wales and Queensland. Ethical mining practices here ensure the preservation of these fields for future generations, making Australian sapphires an investment in more than just the gem itself.

While the industry is flooded with complexities, the best way to find sapphires – no matter where they come from – can be outlined by making just a few ethical considerations, including:

• Fair Labour Practices: Workers involved in the extraction, cutting, and polishing of sapphires should receive fair wages, have safe working conditions, and not be subject to exploitation. This includes strict adherence to no child labour policies.

• Health and Safety: Sapphire mining can be hazardous due to the potential for landslides, tunnel collapses, and exposure to dust and heavy equipment. Adequate safety measures and protective gear for miners are essential.

• Environmental Impact: Mining can cause significant environmental degradation, from deforestation and soil erosion to water contamination. Ethical mining should minimise these impacts through careful planning and sustainable practices.

• Resource Management: Sustainable extraction practices must be implemented to ensure the long-term viability of sapphire resources. Overmining can lead to rapid resource depletion and negatively impact local communities.

• Community Impact: Mining should benefit local communities, not exploit them. Organisations should respect local land rights, provide employment opportunities, and contribute to local economies.

• Transparent Supply Chain: An ethical supply chain is transparent and traceable, allowing consumers to know where their sapphires come from and under what conditions they were sourced.

• Legal Compliance: Ethical mining operations comply with all local, national, and international laws and regulations related to mining, labour, environment, and trade.

By adhering to these considerations, sapphire mining can be conducted in a way that respects human rights, sustains local communities, and preserves the environment for future generations.

At Sapphire Dreams Australia, we have solidified our place in the industry through unwavering dedication to ethical sourcing and a deep appreciation for the natural beauty of Australian sapphires.

From rings and earrings to pendants and loose stones, we have sapphires in the full spectrum of deep blue, sparkling yellow, shining green and more.

Browse our selection online or contact us today for more information.