Luxury jewellery crafted from gold waste by the Royal Mint is set to take center stage at Paris Fashion Week, showcasing a unique partnership with renowned designer Stella McCartney. The gold, sourced from discarded printed circuit boards, has been transformed into bespoke pieces for McCartney’s latest collection, in collaboration with the Royal Mint’s jewellery brand, 886.
In addition to gold, part of the collection features silver recovered from discarded X-ray films, continuing the brand’s dedication to sustainable craftsmanship. Over 100 pieces, including jewellery and garment clasps, have been meticulously handcrafted by expert jewellers and a former coin maker, repurposed with traditional bench-making techniques.
The Royal Mint, based in Llantrisant, Wales, plays a key role in the UK’s effort to combat electronic waste, recovering precious metals from discarded electronics. Using cutting-edge technology, it processes up to 4,000 tonnes of printed circuit boards annually at its precious metals recovery factory. The result is a sustainable source of gold and silver that is already being used in the Mint’s growing luxury jewellery collection under the 886 brand.
This collaboration not only highlights the fusion of fashion and sustainability but also underscores the importance of recycling in the luxury sector, offering a glimpse into the future of eco-friendly design.
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