ETHICAL SOURCING IN MODERN TIMES

In recent decades, as awareness of environmental sustainability and ethical sourcing practices has grown, the mining and crafting of Selenite products have undergone a transformation. Ethical sourcing now involves principles that prioritize both the Earth's well-being and the welfare of communities involved in its extraction and production.

1. Eco-Friendly Mining Practices:

   Modern miners employ eco-friendly techniques to extract Selenite, minimizing environmental impact. These methods prioritise preservation of the surrounding ecosystem, including flora and fauna, and employ sustainable practices to ensure the longevity of Selenite deposits.

2. Fair Trade and Community Empowerment:

   Ethical sourcing initiatives often prioritize fair trade practices, ensuring that workers in Selenite-producing regions receive fair wages and safe working conditions. Additionally, community development projects are frequently established to support education, healthcare, and infrastructure within these areas.

3. Respect for Local Cultures:

   Ethical sourcing of Selenite products places a strong emphasis on respecting the traditions and cultures of the communities where the crystal is found. This involves consultation and collaboration with local stakeholders to ensure that mining activities are conducted in a manner that aligns with cultural values and practices.                 

4. Transparency and Accountability:

   Ethical sourcing initiatives for Selenite products often involve transparency measures that trace the journey of the crystal from the mine to the finished product. This accountability ensures that each step of the process upholds ethical standards and minimizes negative impacts.

5. Rehabilitation and Reclamation Efforts:

   Ethical sourcing practices may include rehabilitation and reclamation programs to restore and rehabilitate mined areas, ensuring that the land remains viable for future generations and wildlife.

HOW IS SELENITE MADE

Selenite products made in Morocco typically go through a process that involves mining, extraction, crafting, and finishing. Here is an overview of how these products are made:

1. Mining and Extraction:

   • Location Identification: The process begins with locating and identifying deposits of selenite in mines and quarries. Morocco is known for having rich selenite deposits, particularly in regions like Naica, Boulmane, and Erfoud.

   • Extraction: Miners use specialized tools and machinery to extract selenite from the earth. This process requires care to avoid damaging the crystals during extraction.

2. Sorting and Cleaning:

   • Sorting: Once extracted, the raw selenite is sorted based on quality, size, and clarity. Higher quality pieces are typically set aside for more intricate and valuable products.

   • Cleaning: The raw selenite pieces are cleaned to remove any dirt or debris accumulated during the extraction process. This may involve gentle brushing or washing.

3. Crafting:

   • Cutting and Shaping: Skilled artisans use saws, grinders, and other cutting tools to shape the selenite into desired forms. This can include slices, wands, spheres, or other shapes depending on the intended product.

   • Carving and Sculpting: Some selenite products, such as statues or intricate carvings, require additional handcrafting. Artisans with expertise in carving work meticulously to create detailed designs.

4. Finishing:

   • Polishing: Selenite products are often polished to enhance their natural luster and shine. This can be done using polishing wheels and various abrasive compounds.

   • Engraving and Embellishments: For products like engraved selenite plaques or embellished items, additional detailing may be added at this stage.

5. Quality Control:

   • Skilled artisans and quality control experts inspect each product to ensure it meets the desired standards in terms of aesthetics, craftsmanship, and overall quality.                                                                              

6. Packaging and Shipping:

   • Once the selenite products have passed quality control, they are carefully packaged to protect them during transit. Packaging materials may include bubble wrap, foam, or specialized boxes.

7. Distribution and Export:

   • Finished selenite products are then distributed to wholesalers, retailers, or exported to international markets. Morocco is a significant exporter of selenite products, supplying them to various countries around the world.

It's important to note that in Morocco, as in many other countries, there are efforts to incorporate ethical and sustainable practices in the production of selenite products. This may include considerations for the environment, fair labor practices, and community well-being. We go above and beyond to make sure we source our selenite products only through ethical manufacturers, we do the hard work so you can be at ease in knowing you are doing fair shopping. Visit our website to see the range of Selenite products we stock (online & in-store).