Our Materials

Yala Jewellery Ethical Sustainable Recycled Discover Our Materials

We choose raw materials that can be ethically sourced, re-used and recycled. We ensure each piece is traceable, from design to delivery.

 

BRASS

Brass is a versatile binary alloy composed of copper and zinc. It is both a practical and precious metal, and makes for an ethical alternative to gold.

Our artisans source the brass we use from a variety of places, including waste facilities, before it is melted, poured and hammered by hand.

All the brass is free of nickel, lead and cadmium – we make sure contaminants are removed in the recycling and purification process.

Yala Jewellery Modern African Ethical Recycled Reused Materials Brass

 

HORN

Our reclaimed cow horn is sourced from local farms where it would otherwise be thrown away.

The dust left over after grinding and shaping the horn is used as fertilizer.

Yala Jewellery Modern African Ethical Recycled Reused Materials Reclaimed Ankole Cow Horn

 

LEATHER

We use surplus dead-stock leather in our beaded pendants and trinket trays.

Yala Jewellery Modern African Ethical Recycled Reused Materials Leather Off cuts

 

GLASS

The glass seed beads used in our jewellery are selected for their quality and complete re-usability.

Yala Jewellery Modern African Ethical Recycled Reused Materials Glass Seed Beads

 

RECYCLED THREAD

We use recycled fibres from plastic flour and rice sacks as thread for our beading.

Yala Jewellery Modern African Ethical Recycled Plastic Rice Flour Sack Beading Thread

 

DURAT

Durat is a solid surface material, created from post-industrial plastic waste.
The plastic is granulated into tiny chips, creating a gorgeous terrazzo look and also allows Durat to reclaim all waste during the manufacturing process.
Yala Jewellery Durat Limited Edition Post Industrial Plastic Waste Zero Waste Circular Manufacturing Solid Surface Material

GOLD

Gold jewellery components such as earring fastenings and necklace chains are made from 9ct gold and 14k gold fill.
Our plated gold jewellery pieces are created through the process of electroplating 24k gold onto brass at a thickness of 1 micron.

 Yala Jewellery Modern African Ethical Recycled Reused Materials 24k gold plating electroplating 1 micron 14k gold fill


SILVER

Some of our pieces (such as earrings) are made with 925 Sterling Silver, or feature Sterling Silver fastenings.
Some of our other pieces feature silver that is electroplated brass with an additional layer of chrome which gives them a high-shine, durable finish.

Yala Jewellery Modern African Ethical Recycled Reused Materials Sterling Silver and Silver Chrome Plating Electroplating 1 micron