Sustainability Legacy and the Future of Fine Jewellery with Vickie Riggs

In the final part of our four-week series with jewellery designer Vickie Riggs, the conversation turns toward the future of fine jewellery. Riggs has always balanced artistry with integrity, and here she reflects on what it means to create beauty responsibly. From ethical sourcing and sustainable materials to the timeless nature of legacy pieces, her philosophy is rooted in respect for both people and planet. Speaking with clarity and conviction, she shares how the industry is evolving, how craftsmanship and technology can coexist, and why the jewellery we choose today can become the heirlooms of tomorrow.

The jewelry industry has a complicated history with sourcing. How do you navigate the responsibility of creating beauty in a way that also respects the Earth?

A lot is happening in our field in regards to this. I’m a member of Ethical Metalsmiths, which is an organization committed to transparent, socially and environmentally sound practices for all facets of the jewelry industry, from mine to market. I follow this standard by picking businesses that adhere to the ethical standards of organizations like the Responsible Jewelry Council. This Council grants certification when the 2013 Code of Practices are followed. Our field has many businesses and dealers that adamantly adhere to fair and ethical practices because they also have the desire to care for the people and planet. I love to visit with gem dealers who personally interact with the miners.Their efforts to uplift the community is shared with pride.  

When you hear the phrase “sustainable luxury,” what does it mean to you in practical terms?

Socially and environmentally conscious sourcing of the materials used to make fine jewelry; such as recycled gold, ethically mined gems and fair pricing at all levels.

Do you think more clients today are asking where their gemstones come from — or do they still care more about size and sparkle?

Clients DO often ask about the source of the gems and how they are mined. There is, and wonderfully so, a great awareness of our responsibility to our environment and the people that find the material to create these sparkly gems. 

You often speak about “modern legacy pieces.” How is legacy different in today’s world compared to generations past?

I think the awareness that Jewelry that has been worn and treasured by someone can make that Jewelry a legacy piece. Part of that value also comes from the quality of the treasured jewelry itself. 

A piece made from real precious metals and gemstones is meant to last, both in terms of beauty and value. These materials are strong and will last forever because they don't tarnish, change color, or go out of style which makes them very sustainable! The piece will keep its shine over time because of the high quality of its materials and craftsmanship. This makes it a good investment because the value of its materials will last as long as the piece itself.

Can a piece of jewelry ever truly be timeless — or do you believe every design reflects the era it was created in?

I wouldn’t say a piece can absolutely be timeless, but time would tell if in hindsight it followed the trends of the period in which it was created. Not being one to follow trends, I know my work is INFLUENCED by trends in the past. I’m particularly fond of the Art Deco and Art Nouveau periods. I’m drawn to the magic of Egyptian art found in the tombs of a culture long ago. I’m influenced by architecture, be it ancient or modern. Who is to say a piece is timeless, until time has passed.

Looking at the future of fine jewelry, what excites you most: technology, new materials, or a return to traditional craftsmanship?

I would have to say technology and new materials. Traditional craftsmanship will always be an integral part of Jewelry design and is honored and admired when crafted with precision. But just like the cell phone being unimaginable in the past, I am curious about the future. The ability to use Computer Aided Design, or CAD Cam, has opened the door to designs that were and are tedious to fabricate, and can now be executed with great precision.

If someone reading this wanted to invest in a single piece of jewelry today, not just as fashion but as a future heirloom, what would you advise them to look for?

Go with the real deal! Costume jewelry is made for fast fashion, and yes, follows the look of the day,  but won’t hold up with wear. Fine jewelry made with precious metals, gemstones, and an elevated design that is elegant and well crafted as well as one that reflects your personal style, can become the heirloom piece that is treasured by future generations. It becomes valuable for both its memory as well as its value.

Vickie Riggs closes this series with a thoughtful look at sustainability and legacy in modern jewellery design. Her commitment to ethical practices and long-lasting craftsmanship speaks to a new kind of luxury, one that values transparency as much as beauty. Riggs believes that fine jewellery should endure both materially and emotionally, serving as a bridge between generations. As she considers the possibilities of new technologies and materials, her vision remains clear, to create pieces that honour the earth, reflect the wearer and stand the test of time. This final chapter brings her series full circle, celebrating jewellery as both art and responsibility.