Is Shell Jewelry Sustainable? A Complete Guide
Is Shell Jewelry Sustainable? What You Need to Know
The term “sustainable jewelry” is used widely and often incorrectly, and is rarely applied clearly to specific materials. Shell jewelry, in particular, often sits in a gray area—associated with nature, but not always responsibly sourced.
So, is shell jewelry actually sustainable?
The answer depends on how it’s sourced, made, and worn over time.
What Is Shell Jewelry Made From?
Shell jewelry is made from the outer layers of marine organisms like mollusks (organisms often with a soft body and a hard shell made of calcium carbonate). Materials that come from abalone, oysters, and scallops are shells valued for their natural color, durability, and iridescence.
In many cases, shells are a byproduct of the food industry. After the meat is harvested and consumed, the shell remains, and can either be discarded or repurposed into materials like jewelry. THIS is the foundation of sustainable jewelry!
Shells that are upcycled (reused in such a way as to create a product of higher quality or value than the original) generally have a much lower environmental impact than materials that are harvested solely for decorative use.
When Is Shell Jewelry Sustainable?
Shell jewelry can be a sustainable option when it meets a few key criteria:
1. It uses byproduct materials
Repurposing shells that would otherwise be discarded reduces waste and extends the life of a natural material.
2. It’s made in small batches
Small-scale production tends to prioritize material use and reduces excess inventory and waste. This is one of the many reasons you should always shop small!
3. It’s designed to last
Durability is often overlooked in sustainability conversations. Jewelry that holds up over time doesn’t need to be replaced frequently, which lowers its long-term impact.
4. It is made from vintage collections
Shell jewelry made from older or vintage collections can also be a more sustainable option. While the original sourcing may have been extractive, repurposing materials that already exist avoids the need for new harvesting. Extending the life of shells that have been unused for decades reduces demand for newly sourced materials and gives existing ones a second life.
When Is Shell Jewelry Not Sustainable?
Shell jewelry may be less sustainable (or not sustainable at all) when:
- Shells are harvested specifically for decoration at scale (common in tourist shops and mass-produced coastal decor) 🫣
- Sourcing is unclear or undisclosed
- Pieces are mass-produced with low-quality materials (see below)
- The design prioritizes trend over longevity
Like most materials, the impact isn’t just about what it is, it’s about how it’s used.
How to Tell If Shell Jewelry Is Sustainable
If you’re considering shell jewelry and want to make a more informed choice, here are a few things to look for:
- Material sourcing: Is the shell repurposed or responsibly obtained? If there is no information on sourcing... this is a giant red flag.
- Construction: Are the components durable (e.g., gold-filled vs plated)?
- Transparency: Does the brand explain where materials come from? Again, no information is a bad sign.
- Design: Is this something you’ll wear for years, not just a season?
These factors matter more than the material alone.
How I approach shell jewelry at Scallop Design Co.
At Scallop Design Co., shell jewelry is approached as a natural material with a story, not just an aesthetic.
This approach allows me to create sustainable shell jewelry that prioritizes both material sourcing and longevity.
Many collections incorporate sustainably sourced abalone shell, chosen for its durability and natural variation. I also utilize sustainably grown pearls from small, family owned farms. Because no two pieces are identical, the material itself sets the tone for the design.
Small-batch production allows for more intentional material use and reduces excess. Some of my pieces also incorporate upcycled elements, extending the life of existing materials.
You can see how these materials are used in practice in my:
→ Abalone collection
→ Upcycled urchin spine collection
→ Upcycled conch earrings
→ Sustainable pearl necklaces
The goal is to create pieces that feel connected to the ocean, while still being wearable in everyday settings ♡
The bottom line
Shell jewelry can be a sustainable option, but it isn’t automatically one.
Like most things labeled “sustainable,” the impact depends on sourcing, construction, and longevity. When thoughtfully made, shell jewelry offers a way to work with natural materials that might otherwise go to waste while creating unique pieces designed to last!