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Mexican silver or liberty currency
Mexican silver or liberty currency

Working in a developing country like Mexico, especially with valuable minerals, raises many concerns, particularly about the origin, quality of materials, and extraction methods.

Indeed, mining in developing countries, such as Mexico, raises numerous ethical and environmental questions. Mining companies, often foreign, tend to prioritize their own economic interests at the expense of local populations and the environment. The extraction methods used can be highly polluting, leading to soil, water, and air degradation, which affects the health and well-being of local communities. Additionally, local workers are often exploited, working in dangerous conditions and not receiving a decent wage for their labor. Child labor is also a persistent problem, with many children being forced to work in mines to help support their families. The poor population is willing to perform very strenuous work to be able to meet their needs. These difficult jobs are often poorly paid despite their difficulty, and often the whole family participates, which implies making the children work.

Questions about raw materials

Our company, concerned about its environmental and social impact, has made the decision not to contribute to this phenomenon. We have chosen to prioritize two sources of metal: first, recycled silver, which reduces the demand for new ores and limits waste, and second, to remain in the most controlled circuit, by sourcing from banks. This approach allows us to guarantee the traceability and transparency of our materials, while contributing to the preservation of natural resources and the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions.

Official source of silver

When recycled silver is not available, we are forced to turn to alternative sources of raw material. In this case, we source from banks rather than the independent shops commonly found in Mexico. This decision is motivated by the need to ensure the traceability and ethics of metal extraction, aspects that cannot always be reliably verified in the context of independent shops.

Indeed, while the Mexican government has made efforts to combat these practices, the reality is that the need to survive and the influence of mafias unfortunately continue to perpetuate these processes. In 2012, the figure of 10.7% of 5 to 17-year-olds working was advanced.

Thus, our raw material comes from the official system, i.e., banks, where it is sold at the international price of the material. This ore is exploited by large national and international companies and is subject to stricter state control.

Mexico silver currency
Mexican silver ounce

In Mexico, silver metal is sold in the form of a coin, "la onza de plata" or "onza libertad," which translates to "the silver ounce" or "ounce of freedom." Weighing 30 grams, it is minted by the Mexican state, which guarantees its quality. Purchasing an ounce from a bank means acquiring a raw material of pure silver.

However, it is important to note that this purchase of silver coin is not ideal, and we are well aware of it. Even though our company sources from banks and national coins, it does not necessarily guarantee that the ore comes from an ethical source. Large mining companies can also be involved in unethical extraction practices, such as exploiting workers and causing negative environmental impacts.

This is the most reasonable option and supports government initiatives aimed at combating child labor and promoting responsible extraction practices. This may include implementing stricter regulations for mining companies, as well as support programs for local communities to reduce their dependence on child labor.

Recycled metal

We then prioritize the option of recycled metal, especially silver, as it is our main raw material. This choice avoids encouraging mining, which can have a devastating impact on the environment and local communities. By opting for recycling, we contribute to minimizing the ecological and human footprint of our production.

This involves reusing metal that is already present in large quantities in human consumption and participating in the cyclical use of the material. By favoring recycling, we contribute to the preservation of natural resources and waste reduction.

Of course, this is not without doubt. Even though we consider silver recycling to be cleaner in many ways, we feared promoting theft and fencing networks. It was only through meetings that we finally found a trusted artisan, aware of the importance of supply chains to avoid favoring crime, and concerned about being fair to families often in need who are selling their goods.

silver minerals
Silver mineral

Through this channel, we also recover purified silver, which is pure, just like silver coins. The melting and transformation work into wires and laminates is our responsibility, which allows us to be sure of the quality we offer, most often in 925 silver. This additional work is more laborious than buying ready-to-use wires and laminates, but it is also the satisfaction of being able to tell our customers that their jewelry is made from the metal casting to the final polishing on the polishing machine.

Of course, we pay more for recycled silver than silver at the international price, for the processing work it requires and the additional intermediaries. But we believe this effort is worth it. By opting for recycling, we contribute to environmental preservation and waste reduction, while supporting local communities and promoting a circular economy.

Question about quality

We would like to take advantage of this page to raise some questions that you should consider when purchasing jewelry.

  • The 925 hallmark is not a guarantee of quality. It can be purchased and applied to any metal, like all official quality hallmarks. Only the master hallmark (regardless of the country of origin of your jewelry) remains a real guarantee for you.
  • The price of silver is governed by the Stock Exchange. It remains the same wherever you are in the world at the time of your purchase. The difference in the price of a piece of jewelry from one country to another is explained by the added value of labor and the various taxes of the country on its work. If the price of your silver jewelry is modest, ask yourself questions about its quality.

About sterling silver

Silver, a precious metal, is extracted from silver mines, mainly in Mexico, which is the world’s leading producer with 17% of global production. This leading position has been disputed with Peru for centuries. The ore is usually sold in the form of granules, then melted to create various objects. The main silver mines in Mexico are Taxco, Pachuca, Zacatecas, and Guanajuato.

The silver market is very volatile and has experienced significant peaks in recent years. We strive to reflect these fluctuations in our prices as accurately as possible. You can check the current value of silver at the following link: https://www.boursorama.com

925 silver, used for quality jewelry, is composed of 92.5% pure silver and 7.5% copper. Pure silver, although beautiful, is too soft to be used in jewelry making. The addition of copper, a harder metal, strengthens the silver, allowing it to retain its shape and shine. This gives rise to 925 silver, an alloy that combines the beauty of pure silver with the durability of copper. That’s why 925 silver is widely used in the creation of quality jewelry.

There are lower grades, meaning with less silver. Or stronger like 940 or more, meaning with less copper. Like many jewelers, we believe that 925 is the best compromise between silver, strength, value, color, oxidation...

shot silver
Silver shot
shot silver
Silver shot

About copper

Copper is a fascinating metal that has played a crucial role in human history. It is one of the first metals to have been used by humans, due to its natural presence in the form of pure mineral.

Discovered in nugget form, much like gold, copper is a versatile material that can be used in various forms, such as wire, sheet, or tube. Its malleability makes it an ideal material for creating jewelry and art objects.

In addition to its malleability, copper is also known for its ability to patinate over time, taking on green to turquoise hues that add a touch of character and authenticity to each piece. Furthermore, copper offers an infinite range of color variations when heated, allowing artisans to create unique and personalized works. In summary, copper is a precious material that continues to inspire creators worldwide.

Copper ore
Copper ore
Copper nugget
Copper nugget

About brass

Brass is a metallic alloy that has been used for centuries for its durability, corrosion resistance, and beauty. Composed mainly of copper and zinc, brass can also contain other metals such as lead, tin, nickel, chrome, or magnesium, giving it unique properties and varied aesthetic characteristics.

One of the most remarkable features of brass is its ability to develop a natural patina called verdigris when exposed to air and moisture. This patina, which forms on the surface of brass, is not only aesthetically appealing, but it also acts as a protective barrier against corrosion, making brass ideal for use in outdoor or humid environments.

Due to its unique properties, brass is widely used in a variety of applications, including the manufacture of watch parts, plumbing fixtures, musical instruments, jewelry, and many other products.

Shot Brass
Brass shot

In addition to metals, their history, origin, and virtues, you can consult the following links: