The partnership aims to address the often opaque nature of gemstone sourcing by offering full traceability through the Product Passport initiative. Introduced in 2022, this blockchain-based system provides consumers with detailed information about the origin and sustainability of their jewellery.
Historically, Monica Vinader has struggled with visibility in its gemstone supply chain, which contributes roughly 77% to its carbon footprint. The Odyssey collection represents a crucial step toward the brand’s goal of comprehensive supply chain transparency, following previous traceability efforts limited to metals and lab-grown diamonds.
Monica Vinader’s Founder, Monica Vinader, emphasized the brand's commitment to making traceability a standard practice, not an exception. “By giving our customers insights into the origins of their gemstones, we ensure they can trust in the ethical and environmental standards of their purchase,” she said.
The Odyssey collection features five pieces, including a cuff, necklace, cocktail ring, and earrings, all set in 100% recycled 18k gold vermeil. Inspired by the ocean, the aquamarine stones range from translucent to vivid greenish-blue hues.
Sourced from Zimbaqua's mine in Karoi, Zimbabwe, the aquamarines highlight the mine's dedication to community development, focusing on education and well-being. Monica Vinader’s team selected the stones during a visit to Zimbaqua in 2023. In collaboration with Société Générale de Surveillance (SGS), the brand has developed a bespoke gemstone mine audit to evaluate Zimbaqua’s environmental and social impact, with plans to extend this audit to other mines.
The Odyssey collection is now available at select boutiques in London and New York, as well as on the Monica Vinader website and Nordstrom.