Australia’s leading fine jewellery retailer, Michael Hill Jewellers is launching its new gold recycling program, as part of the company’s Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) goals and sustainability commitment, while aligning to rising adoption of a circular economy.
Michael Hill’s gold recycling program, titled Re:cycle, is the first phase of the company’s new sustainable jewellery ecosystem which focuses on the renewal and circularity of existing precious metals and products, which can be refined and recycled repeatedly, without losing their value or purity.
The jeweller is encouraging Australians to recycle any broken, old or no longer worn gold jewellery pieces in exchange for its value on a Michael Hill gift card, to purchase a new piece online or in-store.
To enable this jewellery circularity program, Michael Hill continues its long-term partnership with fourth-generation family-owned precious metal services company, Morris & Watson. The gold from each piece of jewellery sent in will be recycled, through a rigorous refining process, ready to be reused and crafted into something new.
Michael Hill CEO, Daniel Bracken said, “At Michael Hill, we are committed to our sustainability goals and by 2030, aim for all our products to be sustainable, responsible, or circular. We are fortunate to work with precious metals that never tarnish or decay, allowing us to provide an innovative service whilst building a more circular economy.
“How we source and manufacture our products impacts our planet, and this Re:cycle program is our first major foray into jewellery circularity, and evolving the jewellery industry towards a more sustainable and ethically responsible future.
“Through research, we know that recycling one gram of pure gold can reduce an estimated three tonnes of ore extraction and avoid up to 16kg of carbon emissions. This program, combined with our customers allows us to contribute towards reducing the need for virgin-mined gold. We are excited to offer this new service to Michael Hill customers, giving new life to old loves, and working together to make a difference.”
To get involved, customers can either choose to pick up a free Re:cycle kit from any Michael Hill store or order it online via Michael Hill’s dedicated gold recycling website.
When ready with their gold, customers can visit the website to enter their details and photos of the items in exchange for a postage label. Once the gold pieces are sent to Michael Hill’s support office, they are assessed and valued by Michael Hill’s experts, with customers offered a Michael Hill gift card in exchange.