Summary
Actress Nathalie Kelley joins Pure Earth to create a Fairmined gold jewelry piece for the 2025 Pure Gold Auction, supporting mercury-free mining and women-led cooperatives in Peru’s Amazon. In doing so, she shows how ethical gold can protect both people and the planet.
Introduction
Actress and environmental advocate Nathalie Kelley has teamed up with Pure Earth, a global nonprofit fighting toxic pollution, to design a one-of-a-kind jewelry piece for the 2025 Pure Gold Auction.
For the first time, this auction features 100% Fairmined gold from AMATAF, a women-led mining cooperative in Madre de Dios, Peru, which has successfully eliminated mercury from its gold production.
Of Quechua descent, Kelley has become a leading voice for sustainable mining and Amazon conservation. Moreover, she uses her platform to connect cultural heritage with environmental advocacy. “The key is proving that gold can empower instead of destroy,” she said.
To learn more, read our post on Understanding Fairmined Gold Certification.
Designing a Symbol of Change
Kelley collaborated with Peruvian jewelry designer Andrea José, who works with Pure Earth to help small-scale miners adopt ethical methods. Together, they turned Fairmined gold into a symbol of renewal — changing gold’s story from pollution and deforestation to community restoration.
Globally, around 15 million miners depend on artisanal gold, and 37% still use mercury. Because of this, Pure Earth has developed programs that reduce mercury emissions by over 90% in supported regions.
For further information, visit pureearth.org.
Meanwhile, explore how technology supports sustainable craftsmanship in AI in Jewelry Design: The Future of Craftsmanship.
A Voice for the Amazon and Indigenous Women
Since joining Pure Earth’s Leadership Council in 2025, Kelley has championed indigenous rights and women-led mining projects. In fact, she often reminds people that responsible mining can protect nature when guided by strong community values.
If you’re curious, check the Gold Buying Checklist for Malayalis.
Case Study: AMATAF’s Mercury-Free Success
- Region: Madre de Dios, Peru
- Founded: 2018
- Led by: Women miners
- Goal: Mercury-free gold extraction
- Impact: Over 250 families now earn steady incomes from sustainable mining
Clearly, AMATAF’s success story shows that ethical mining can create wealth without environmental loss.
For comparison, you can also read our Gemstone Lighting and Value Guide to see how light and ethics affect gemstone appeal.
FAQ
Q1: What is Fairmined gold?
Fairmined gold is certified ethical gold from small-scale miners following strict environmental and social standards.
Q2: Why is mercury-free mining vital?
Mercury pollutes rivers, soil, and fish. Therefore, mercury-free gold protects both people and ecosystems.
Q3: How does Nathalie Kelley’s jewelry help?
Her design raises awareness of sustainable gold and encourages responsible consumer choices.
Q4: What makes AMATAF unique?
It’s one of the first all-women cooperatives in Peru to achieve 100% mercury-free gold production, which proves small-scale miners can thrive sustainably.
