PeaceGold in Bishop Auckland is shortlisted for Responsible Jewellery Business of the Year at UK Jewellery Awards 2025.
Greg Valerio started the social enterprise. He’s a jeweler with lots of experience. Greg traveled the world working with gold farmers and campaigned for ethical, fairtrade jewelry in places like Congo.
The awards happen on June 25 in London. Greg and his team will attend the event, hoping to bring the award back home.
Greg says he’s worked with source communities before. He got an MBE in 2015 for his efforts.
Peace Gold links both sides of the chain. They work with communities hit by conflict and partner with small mining groups.
They also work with ethical jewelers.
The shop curates ethical jewelers. It also runs workshops with Kate Seow, a goldsmith from Yarm. Jewellery making is a skilled craft.
Greg plans to run workshops. He also wants to offer apprenticeships so young people can start a career in the industry.
One current workshop is Solder like a Superstar. People can create custom stacking rings.
PeaceGold is a CIC focused on conflict areas. They connect mining workers with ethical jewelry designers, highlighting their bravery.
They promote ethical jewellery as the future. Greg thinks peace is vital to their mission and a prize worth fighting for.